Beckman Scholars

Who's Eligible?

Eligible Students are:

• Must be a full-time undergraduate student throughout the duration of the award and must maintain good academic standing.
• Stated interest in an advanced science or engineering degree (e.g. Ph.D., MD, MD-Ph.D.) or other pursuits within the STEM workforce. 
• Prospective or declared major in biochemistry, biological sciences, biomedical engineering, chemistry, or integrative neuroscience.
• A citizen or permanent resident of the U.S. or its territories and possessions or DACA status.
• Students who will not graduate until or after December 2027.
• Applicants should be interested in pursuing leadership roles in their scientific and professional journey
• Must commit to 15-months of continuous research at the college or university (summer, academic year, summer).

What Does the Program Look Like?

Selected participants:

Undergo a 15-month (May 2026-Sept. 2027) mentored research experience and receive $21,000 to support their development and research endeavors.

All second-summer scholars will be asked to exhibit their research through poster presentation at the annual Beckman Symposium. Travel and hotel accommodations for the symposium are provided by the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation.

Funding Breakdown:

• Student Stipend $18,200; distributed as follows:
  • First Summer - $6,800
  • Academic Year - $4,600
  • Second Summer - $6,800
• Student Scientific Supply and Travel $2,800; distributed as needed, to support current research activities. 

What Kinds of Research Can Scholars Expect?

Accepted students can expect to gain hands-on, independent research in their field while working with respected faculty. Projects vary from mentor to mentor. Please see the guide below for faculty and potential projects.

What does the application require?

Applicants must provide the following information in their application:

• Basic information including name, contact information, major, and general academic and career goals. 
• Consult the guide below for information about eligible mentors. You will be asked in the form to rank your top three potential mentors. (You will have the opportunity to re-rank if you move on in the process.)
• “About My Path” response. You can submit this response as either a one-page essay, a 3-page slide deck, or a 3-minute audio or video recording. The greatest scientific minds have had to chart their own path. Tell us the story of your own journey, touching on (1) your past, (2) your present, and (3) your future. What drives you? What challenges have you faced? Where do you want to go?” 
• The names and emails of two potential references who can speak to your curiosity, work ethic, leadership, or other unique attributes. These references need not be faculty or academic mentors. 

Materials Submission:

Deadline: February 23, 2026

Submit application materials in this Google formPlease address any questions about your application to Dr. Stephen Ortiz at: sortiz@binghamton.edu 

Student Mentor Guide

Student Mentor Guide