UNF Summer Paid Internship: Applications available with Mrs. Smith in Guidance

Project SEED is a program administered by the American Chemical Society (ACS) that offers a unique opportunity to spend a summer conducting hands-on research with a scientist in a laboratory setting. Project SEED programs are initiated and hosted by research institutions (academic, government, or industrial laboratories). Students work 8–10 weeks and are awarded a $2500 stipend. Students who satisfactorily complete the first summer and who have not yet entered college may have the opportunity to return for a second summer of research and receive a higher stipend.

Because of the design of the research projects and the close mentoring relationship between student and scientist, the program has had a very positive influence on students.

“Ultimately, I am incredibly grateful for being given this life changing opportunity through Project SEED. With my summer internship experience, I am now ready to advance myself in the scientific community.” Marchelle Meza, San Diego, Calif.

“Thanks to the Project SEED program, I have a career path to aim for to become a biochemical researcher with an emphasis on toxin removal.” Cheyenne Silva, San Antonio, Tex.

“The Project SEED program is an experience I will never forget that has challenged, influenced, and helped me push for my future goals.” Jordan Childs, Pocatello, Idaho

More information on the program can be found at www.acs.org/projectseed

The Opportunities

For 8 to 10 weeks, SEED students have the unique opportunity to work with scientists, who help them develop laboratory, written and oral skills as they discover that they are capable of conducting scientific research. Mentors also provide guidance, encouragement, and letters of recommendation for college.

Benefits of Project SEED

·         Exciting research opportunities

·         Information on career paths

·         Preparation for college studies

·         Individual mentoring by SEED scientists

·         Exposure to other assistance programs

·         Opportunities to present their summer research at a scientific meeting

·         Eligibility to apply for a SEED college scholarship

·         A chance to enhance self-confidence

The Institutions

Project SEED students gain research experience in academic, industrial, and governmental research laboratories through the guidance of scientist-mentors. Over the past four decades, more than 350 institutions have sponsored more than 8,500 high school students to work on scientific research projects.  This year the University of North Florida is a participating institution.

The Students and Mentors

In addition to hands-on research, Project SEED students receive guidance on their career and personal development. Mentors and students build relationships that help to expand their awareness and understanding of the workforce. Mentors provide strategies for helping students reach their objectives, give feedback, and allow opportunities for growth.

Eligibility

Project SEED is designed for economically disadvantaged high school students. You must have taken high school science courses and be recommended by your teacher. You must also have demonstrated ambition, motivation, and the willingness to work hard. Preference will be given to students whose maximum family income does not exceed 200% of the current Federal Poverty Guidelines based on family size. (http://aspe.hhs.gov/poverty).

 Student Responsibilities

Project SEED students are expected to be good employees. You should be at work every day on time and be dressed appropriately for the laboratory environment. You will need to maintain a good attitude toward work, use the safety training provided, and share any concerns about work with your mentor (or program coordinator). You are expected to work and learn as much as you can about your specific research project. You will be asked to do research that may involve, for example, making new compounds, collecting data, or working with instruments or computers. You will be required to complete surveys and reports concerning your experience. In some settings you will be required to give an oral presentation at the end of the summer describing what you did and learned.

UNF Project SEED Program Coordinator:

Dr. Jennifer Williams

Jennifer.Williams@unf.edu

Applications Due April 25, 2016. 

Applications must include the parents IRS1040 to confirm eligibility.