OSU Searches for Newest Generation of Scientists
Monday, February 16, 2009
(Feb. 13, 2009, STILLWATER, Okla.) – A nationwide decline in students enrolled in science programs has led several Oklahoma State University officials to find a solution.
OSU recently received the first part of a $600,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to recruit and teach students majoring in biological science, physiology or zoology.
Bachelor’s degrees in life sciences are often the first step for those who pursue careers in the sciences including genetic testing, environmental quality and conservation.
The project’s goal is to improve success rates for students transferring from two-year colleges, says Kristen Baum, an OSU zoology professor who is overseeing the initiative.
More than 60 scholarships will be awarded over a four-year period to academically talented and financially needy students. Scholarships will be up to $10,000 per year, depending on a student’s financial need. The first round of scholarships will be awarded for fall 2010.
The team also includes zoology professor Donald French, zoology counselor Melissa Gentry, life sciences and pre-health counselor James Hull, scholarship and financial aid director Charles Bruce, and university academic services director Martha McMillian.
The project is funded by the NSF Scholarships in Sciences, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics program.
To learn more, phone (405) 744-7424 or visit zoology.okstate.edu.