Contributed by Ajay Mallia (Chair, CSW-SEED committee)
**DEADLINE EXTENDED: Applications due May 15th, noon**
For the past 45 years, ACS’ Project SEED has helped thousands of disadvantaged high school students who historically lack exposure to scientific careers by giving them an opportunity to conduct research at academic, industrial, or governmental institutions. Under Project SEED, high school students participate in a chemistry research project under the direct supervision of a mentor scientist for a period of 8 – 10 weeks during the summer months. In this program, fellows learn how to perform research, gain self-confidence, and expand their education and career outlooks to place their foot firmly in the tough and expanding job markets. If selected, these students are offered two exciting research opportunities:
Summer I fellowships: For first-time participants, students conduct research in chemistry or a related field supervised by a scientist mentor and receive a fellowship award of $2,500.
Summer II fellowships: Summer I students get a second opportunity to continue working on their Summer I project or begin a new one. Students receive a $3,000 fellowship award.
Eligibility
Academic Requirements
Students entering their junior or senior year in high school and who have completed at least one high school chemistry course are eligible to apply. AP Chemistry is highly recommended.
Family Income Requirements
Student must be recognized as economically disadvantaged to be considered for Project SEED. Preference will be given to students whose family income does not exceed 200% of the Federal Poverty guidelines based on family size (For example, the maximum eligible limit on annual gross income is $48,500 for a family of 4 or $40,180 for a family of 3).
Application materials
- Completed application forms. Forms can be obtained by emailing the CSW Project SEED chair, Dr. Ajay Mallia ([email protected]). The CSW Project SEED committee should receive all completed forms by noon on May 1, 2015.
- Scanned copy of 1040 tax form (tax year 2014).
- One letter of recommendation (from a chemistry teacher, preferably by email) should be directly sent to the CSW Project SEED chair. Recommendation letters should clearly state the relationship with the student and specify how well and how long the teacher has known the student. (For example, which classes you taught that the student attended.) Teachers should clearly describe why the student is exceptional/outstanding and why he/she thinks that the student will successfully complete the program.
Selection Process
The Project SEED committee will start reviewing the application on May 1, 2015, and the results will be declared by second week of May 2015. Students will be shortlisted based on the income eligibility of the applicant, teacher’s recommendation letter, and a short essay. Final selection will be based on a telephone interview with the CSW Project SEED committee. High school science teachers are needed as references to identify excellent chemistry students to participate in Project SEED and assist in the student’s application process.
