Beckman Scholar Program at Bowdoin College

Step 1

Learn about the Beckman Scholar Program below and, if possible, attend the Beckman Scholar Program Info Session on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 3:30 pm in Druck 16.

Step 2

Indicate your intent to apply to become a Beckman Scholar by completing this form by February 17, 2026, 5:00pm. Beckman Scholar Program Intent to Apply for 2026 Form.

Step 3

Submit the full application for the Beckman Scholar Program by March 2, 2026, 5:00pm. This includes 2 letters of reference.  Application materials here. 

About the Beckman Scholar Program

Bowdoin College was selected to be a Beckman Scholars Program institution in December 2025. This prestigious award will support a total of six Beckman Scholars at Bowdoin, two for each of three cycles, each completing a contiguous research experience spanning one summer, the academic year, and the following summer, with substantial student compensation. 

The Beckman Scholar Program (BSP) provides a special opportunity for Bowdoin students who are interested in scientific research. Beckman Scholars dive deeply into independent research with a faculty mentor while becoming immersed in the scientific community and developing as researchers and leaders.

The BSP is open to Bowdoin 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.

Beckman Scholars engage in a 15-month contiguous program beginning with 10 weeks of intensive summer research in the lab of a Bowdoin faculty mentor. For this first cycle of the Bowdoin BSP (2026), this means summer 2026 through the end of summer 2027. 

Beckman Scholars receive a stipend of $18,200 over the 15-month span of the program, plus funding for supplies and travel to professional meetings. The breakdown is as follows:

• $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. 

The 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. Scholars will benefit from professional development and mentoring and become well-positioned to pursue graduate education in science or medicine.

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. 

Questions?
Contact the Beckman Scholars Program Coordinators at beckman@bowdoin.edu.