Beckman Scholar Program Application Information

Bowdoin College Beckman Scholars Program (2026)

Student Application Information and Program Overview 

The Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation’s Beckman Scholars Program (BSP) supports undergraduate students engaged in sustained, mentored research in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, neurobiology and the medical sciences, or interdisciplinary combinations of these fields. The program is designed to broaden access to high-impact research experiences and to support students as they develop the skills, confidence, and perspective needed for future scientific and professional leadership. 

In alignment with updated Beckman Foundation guidelines, the Bowdoin College Beckman Scholars Program does not use GPA cutoffs, previous research experience, or strong communication skills as selection criteria . Students are encouraged to apply regardless of prior access to research opportunities. The BSP seeks students who demonstrate resilience, creativity, and a growth mindset. 

At Bowdoin College, the BSP is open to Juniors, Sophomores, and First-Year students who are motivated to pursue sustained research and to grow as scientists through close faculty mentorship. The BSP encourages applicants from a variety of experiences, backgrounds, opportunities, and who may not have had access to STEM resources or role models during their K-12 education.

Program Support

Beckman Scholars receive funding and support for their research over two summers and one academic year, including: 

• $6,800 per each of 2 summers
• $4,600 during the academic year
• $2,800 for research supplies and scientific travel
  • Total funding: $21,000
• In addition, travel and lodging are provided for attendance at one or more Annual Beckman Scholars Research Symposia.

Application Components 

A. Short-Answer Responses (1 page, single-spaced, 12 pt font, standard margins) 

• Applicants will respond to prompts addressing the following areas:

1. Experience in STEM coursework, including classes, laboratory work, or other academic experiences that have shaped your interest in science;
2. The potential impact of the BSP on your academic development and longer-term academic or career goals;
3. Your motivation for applying, including what draws you to sustained, mentored research; and
4. Scientific role models whose paths, values, or approaches to science have influenced your interests 

B. Research Proposal (Choose One Format) (1 p. single-space, 12 pt, standard margins)

Applicants should submit a brief description of their proposed research project, developed by the student in consultation with their faculty mentor, and outline their research goals for the BSP period. This is an opportunity to share your curiosity and interest in long-term research. To support accessibility and multiple modes of scientific communication, applicants may choose one of the following formats: 

Option 1: Written Research Proposal

A concise single-page written proposal describing a research project that could be carried out during the Beckman Scholars Program period. The proposal should include:

• Background and scientific context;
• A clear research question or hypothesis;
• The general experimental or analytical approach; and
• The significance of the proposed work, both scientifically and for your development as a researcher.

Option 2: Graphical Abstract

A single-page graphical abstract that visually summarizes the proposed research project. The graphical abstract should clearly convey: 

• The scientific question;
• The central idea or hypothesis;
• The general research approach; and
• The significance of the work.

Applicants selecting the graphical abstract are not expected to produce professional-quality graphics; clarity of scientific thinking and communication is the priority.

Both formats are weighed equally and will serve as the basis for discussion during the interview.

The scholar selection process will consider the impact of the award on the applicant, the merit of the candidate, and the merit of the proposed research project. Students with unique pathways to studies in STEM are encouraged to apply.

C. Names of Two References

Applicants should request written letters of support from their prospective mentor and another reference, due March 2, 2026. List the names of these two individuals in the application.

The candidate must solicit two reference letters, and these should be sent directly from the reference to beckman@bowdoin.edu by March 2, 2026:

One letter from the proposed faculty research mentor addressing the feasibility of the project and the student’s readiness for sustained mentored research.

• One additional reference who can speak to the applicant’s character, curiosity, motivation, and interest in research and potential growth and abilities in science.

Interviews 

Selected candidates will be invited to a 20-minute interview in late March. Interviews will focus on:

• Educational and professional goals;
• Motivation for pursuing research; and
• Discussion of the proposed research project.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Major or intend to major in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or neuroscience;
• Intend to pursue an advanced degree in biology, chemistry, the biological or medical sciences, engineering, or some interdisciplinary STEM field after graduation (e.g., PhD, MD, or MD/PhD);
• Be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or have DACA status;
• Be enrolled full-time at Bowdoin College and remain in good academic standing for the duration of the award (with the understanding that juniors awarded a Beckman Scholarship will have graduated prior to their second summer); and
• Commit to 15 months (two summers and one academic year) of contiguous research with one of the following Bowdoin College Beckman Faculty Mentors: Jack Bateman, Danielle Dube, Michael Henderson, Jennifer Honeycutt, Hadley Horch, Barry Logan, Son Nguyen, Erika Nyhus, Amnon Ortoll-Bloch, Daniel Powell, Mary Rogalski, Thais Scott, Elizabeth Stemmler, Maria Sterett, or Kana Takematsu. 

Application Deadlines for the 2026 Program

Tuesday, February 17, by 5:00 p.m.
Notice of Intent to Apply (Phase I) deadline. Fill out the Beckman Scholar Program Intent Form.

Monday, March 2, by 5:00 p.m.
Application deadline: Please submit all required materials electronically to Beckman@bowdoin.edu, including the applicant’s application and reference letters from both the mentor and a reference. 

Questions?

Contact the Beckman Scholars Program Coordinators at Beckman@bowdoin.edu.