NSF-REU Site:
Natural History Research Experiences
A summer research internship for undergraduates funded by the National Science Foundation (EAR-1062692).
The National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, hosts a world-class research staff and unparalleled scientific research collections. Natural History Research Experience (NHRE) summer internships pair undergraduates with members of the Natural History research and collections staff, providing a hands-on introduction to scientific research. Here is an opportunity for students to engage in an original research project with a scientific mentor from one or more of the scholarly disciplines at the National Museum of Natural History: Anthropology, Botany, Entomology, Invertebrate Zoology, Mineral Science, Paleobiology, Vertebrate Zoology, and Museum Education. Additional activities include behind-the-scenes tours and lectures at the museum.
As part of the application procedure, students will need to identify a field of interest and/or specific individuals with whom they are interested in working. Information about research areas and staff directories can be found through the department websites listed above (except for Education, which links instead to a sample project). Students can also browse project archives from previous years for inspiration. Students selected for placement in the NHRE program will be given full details about the specific research mentor, department, and project(s) available to them, at which point they can accept or reject the internship offer.
The National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) is located on the National Mall in the heart of Washington DC. The program runs from May 29 to August 3, 2012. Students selected will receive a stipend of $5,000 and housing at a local university. A relocation allowance may also be available.
Previous research experience is not required, and we encourage applications from ethnic minorities and members of other underrepresented groups.
The program dates for NHRE 2012 are May 29 – August 3, 2012. To apply, download and complete the Application form linked below and follow its instructions. Applicants must arrange for two letters of recommendation to be sent directly to NHRE@si.edu, along with copies of all college transcripts; unofficial electronic versions of transcripts are acceptable.
All application materials must be received by February 1, 2012.
Applicants will be notified of their status via email by April 2.
If you have questions about the program or require assistance, please email NHRE@si.edu. You can expect a response within one business day. Email is our preferred contact mechanism, but you may also leave a message for Virgina Power, the NHRE administrator, at 202-633-1055.
Browse the project archives from previous years.
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