Niblack program gives undergraduate students a unique opportunity
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
(September 23, 2008 Stillwater, OK) - Since 2004 retired Pfizer executive Dr. John Niblack has funded 45 undergraduates conducting research in one of OSU’s laboratories as part of the Niblack Research Scholars program. This fall, the program, which is designed to introduce students to research early in their academic careers, begins its fifth year. Current and former Niblack scholars say the opportunity to participate in research activities as an undergraduate is a chance they do not take for granted.
“I could not have asked for a better undergraduate opportunity,” said Braxton Nottingham, a 2007-08 scholar who plans to pursue both a Ph.D. and a medical degree. “Part of being a good M.D./Ph.D. candidate is having a long, in-depth research experience. I would not have that experience without the Niblack program.”
NRS pairs undergraduates with both a graduate student mentor and a faculty sponsor who oversee the scholar’s work. The program is not intended to provide faculty members with assistants, but to provide students with a valuable educational experience not available to most undergraduates. Scholars commit to working in the lab for two semesters and two months during the summer. They receive a $2,000 stipend for both fall and spring semesters and a $4,000 stipend during the summer.
Beginning next summer, scholars who have completed the full one-year NRS program are also eligible to apply for paid summer internships at predetermined national companies. The application process for internships beginning in summer 2009 starts later this fall.
Dr. Niblack is an OSU alumnus who worked at Pfizer as an active scientist from 1967-1980. Niblack rose in the company through a succession of positions where he directed research into drugs for viral illnesses, cancer and autoimmune disorders. He retired in 2002 as vice chairman of the company.
Tammy Austin, an undeclared business major and 2008-09 Niblack scholar, said the fusion of science and business she saw in Dr. Niblack’s career inspired her to apply.
“After taking a microbiology course for non-science majors, I became very interested not only in microbiology but also in conducting research,” Austin said. “I don’t see science and business as separate things. In today’s world, they’re immersed in one another.”
Although Austin said she is considering changing her major to microbiology, she believes a strong business and science background will serve her well in the future. “I’m very excited about the opportunity to conduct research,” Austin said. “I’m excited about all the possibilities.”