As part of the Danforth Center’s commitment to developing next-generation scientists, the Center provides rigorous training for undergraduate students through the Research Experience for Undergraduates. This 11-week intensive summer program funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) combines hands-on training and mentoring from top-tier scientists helping to create a pipeline of plant scientists prepared to address both current and future global challenges.

The goal is to give each student insight into the research environment, as well as to teach valuable research skills. Center staff work to facilitate connections among interns and their scientific colleagues through discussion forums, informal lunches and social gatherings.

The 2018 REU summer Internship program is hosted at the Danforth Center from May 21-August 3, 2018. Application deadline is February 9, 2018.

Apply today!

Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU)

The Danforth Center has received continuous funding since 2003 by the National Science Foundation to serve as a “Research Experience for Undergraduates” Site. Entering its fifteenth year, this 11-week intensive summer program provides a comprehensive approach encompassing research, educational experiences and mentorship to students primarily from schools with limited research opportunities and to students from underrepresented groups. Interns gain skills and knowledge critical to advancement in the sciences and are exposed to broad research areas including bioinformatics, genomics, cell biology and translational plant science. In addition, they attend special events on career advancement opportunities.

The program culminates in a one-day symposium where each intern presents his or her research project. Interns receive stipends for research, food and travel. Non-local interns are provided with housing.

Discover the REU 2017 by the numbers:

  • The Center hosted 20 interns, an increase of 25% in class size since 2003.
  • Individuals were selected from a competitive pool of 237 applicants, quintupling the number
    since inception in 2003.
  • 15 interns were supported by NSF funding, four by a generous grant from the Mallinckrodt Corporation, six through Principal Investigators and one through an individual fellowship.
  • 58% of the interns were from schools that have limited research opportunities.
  • 23% of the interns were from underrepresented minority groups.
  • A recent survey shows 87% of former interns are working in a STEM career or pursuing an advanced degree in STEM.
  • From 2009-2015, 15 out of 188 interns received the prestigious NSF graduate research fellowship award.