The Beckman Scholars Program

Student in blue shirt and mentor in peach shirt discussing results on shared computer screen at a long brown table

The Beckman Scholars Program (BSP) at Harvey Mudd

  • Premier Research Experience @ HMC for Future STEM Leaders
  • $21,000 Total Award Package | 15-Month Research Mentorship

Why Become a Beckman Scholar?

The Beckman Scholars Program (BSP) is not just a summer job; it is Harvey Mudd’s most prestigious research fellowship. Situated within our vibrant academic environment, this program is designed for students ready to accelerate their careers in biology, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, and physics.

The Award

Selected Scholars receive one of the most generous funding packages available to undergraduates:

  • $18,200 Stipend: Direct financial support for your time and research.
  • $2,800 Travel & Supplies Fund: Dedicated funds to support your research materials, travel to national conferences, and graduate school application fees.

The Experience

  • 15-Month Duration: Two full-time summers (10 weeks each) + one academic year (part-time) of deep, continuous research.
  • Deep Mentorship: 1-on-1 training with one of 10 faculty Mentors.
  • Leadership Development: Personalized Individual Development Plans (IDP), peer mentoring opportunities with the Summer Institute, and hosting an annual BSP@HMC seminar.
  • National Exposure: Present your work at the annual Beckman Symposium and discipline-specific national conferences.

Who Can Apply?

  • Current HMC Students: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
    • Must be a U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident of the United States or its possessions, or hold DACA recipient status.
  • Major: Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, Mathematics, and Physics. Computer Science majors must pursue a joint major with one of the other five core majors.
  • Academic Standing: Must be in good academic standing.
  • Commitment: Must be willing to commit to the full 15-month experience (Two summers + one academic year).
  • Goal: Intention to pursue an advanced degree (PhD, MD/PhD) or a career in STEM, and interested in pursuing leadership roles in those fields.

BSP Scholar Application Timeline (Year 1)

EventDateNotes
Program AnnouncementJanuary 16Applications open
Application DeadlineFebruary 611:59 pm (firm)
Initial ReviewFebruary 15Finalists selected
InterviewsFebruary 16-February 28Interview with Selection Committee
Final DecisionsMarch 72 Scholars selected

How to Apply

Step 1: Connect with Mentors: To prepare your submission, we strongly recommend you review the research summaries for each Mentor and contact at least one from the BSP Mentor list to inform them of your intention to include them in your application. Your application must clearly explain how research in the Mentor’s lab group aligns with your personal goals.

Step 2: Complete the Online Form

  • Research Alignment: Identify your potential advisors.
  • The Statement (300-500 Words): A reflection on your background, your motivation for research, and how the BSP award will impact your personal and professional journey. We want to hear your unique story, including challenges you’ve overcome.

Step 3: Interview (Finalists Only)
Up to five finalists will be interviewed by the Selection Committee to discuss their vision for impacting society through science.

Questions?

To reach the BSP for any questions, please contact any of the following individuals: