SPIRE Summer Research Program

Program Description 

The goals of the program are to provide undergraduate students the opportunity to participate in innovative research at UNC Chapel Hill, develop professional skills as a scientist, and contribute to a scholarly community.  Research opportunities exist in areas such as molecular biology, cell biology, chemistry, genetics, cancer research, marine biology, and microbiology.  The program will run from May 22 – July 29, 2022 and includes required professional development seminars, journal clubs, and social events throughout the summer in conjunction with other summer research programs. Research mentors for the program will be current SPIRE postdoctoral scholar.  See the end of this application form for a list of potential mentors. 

Eligibility 

Research internships are awarded on a competitive basis to students who meet the following requirements: 

1) Enrolled full-time at one of the following institutions: Johnson C. Smith University, North Carolina A&T State University, North Carolina Central University, UNC Pembroke 

2) Current sophomore, junior, or senior majoring in a biological, biomedical or chemical science 

3) A minimum grade-point average of 3.0 

Previous research experience is not required. Underrepresented students are strongly encouraged to apply.   

Students must be able to participate in the entire program (see dates above) including weekly professional development seminars, lab meetings, and poster session at the end of the summer.   

$6000 stipend and on-campus housing accommodations will be provided. 

How to apply – All materials MUST be RECEIVED on or before February 28, 2022 for consideration.   

1)   Submit completed SPIRE Summer Undergraduate Research 2022 application (MSWord File)– submitted by student applicant directly to Dr. Rybarczyk (brybar@unc.edu)  

2) Transcripts: Request your institution to submit a copy of your transcript directly to Dr. Rybarczyk (brybar@unc.edu).  Preference is given to students with a GPA of 3.0 or above. Unofficial transcripts are also acceptable for students to submit with their application materials.  

3) Two Letters of Recommendation Request a science faculty instructor, an internship advisor, or other relevant individuals to send a letter commenting on your motivation and potential for scientific research, academic abilities, motivation, focus, work ethic, and interest in a research career. Faculty must submit letters directly to Dr. Rybarczyk (email to brybar@unc.edu).
 

This program is supported by a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS), Training, Diversity, and Workforce Development Division and funding from various administrative offices at UNC Chapel Hill.