NSF-REU Undergraduate Plant Genome Research Internship

Geographic Scope: Open to undergraduate students currently enrolled at academic institutions

Focus Areas: Plant genome research, plant science

Eligibility

• Currently enrolled undergraduate students at an academic institution
• U.S. citizens and permanent residents (NSF requirement)

Program Details

• Funding Source: National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Award #1358843, individual faculty grants, and donor support
• Donors/Supporters: Emerson Foundation, Ithaca Garden Club, John Ben Snow, Legacy Foundation of Tompkins County, Rheonix, Triad Foundation Inc, Yunis Realty, and individual donors
• Location: Boyce Thompson Institute, 533 Tower Rd., Ithaca, NY 14853
• Contact: internships@btiscience.org

Important Notes

• Program timing and format may be impacted by circumstances (historically affected by pandemic)
• High school internship applications are currently closed but will be reopened in the future

Contact Information

Boyce Thompson Institute
533 Tower Rd.
Phone: 607.254.1234
Email: internships@btiscience.org, info@bticornellinternships.com

Application Process

Step 1: Complete Registration

1. Click the "Apply Here" button to access the application system at http://bticornellinternships.com/
2. Create an account and login using your current email address as username
3. Complete the CONTACT INFORMATION section
4. Enter the name and email address of both recommenders
5. Click the "Send E-mail" button to request recommendation letters immediately
6. Follow up with recommenders after a few days to ensure they received requests

Step 2: Assemble Application Materials

Have the following items ready:

• Academic Transcripts: Unofficial or official transcripts accepted. Upload scanned version through application form OR send electronic copy to internships@btiscience.org
• Current GPA
• Personal Statement Essay: 500-700 words describing:
  • Interest in the internship
  • What you hope to gain
  • How the opportunity fits into your future academic and career plans
  • Any relevant research experience
• Resume: Optional for high school applicants; required for undergraduate applications
• Letters of Recommendation: Two required (from faculty, teachers, or others who can speak to your abilities and potential)

Step 3: Research Participating Faculty and Projects

• Visit the Faculty and Projects page before completing application
• Select up to five projects of interest on the application form

Step 4: Complete and Submit Application

• Complete the Internship Application Form online
• After submission, you can only update contact information and recommenders
• Cannot make other changes after submission

Important Deadlines and Notes

• Application Submission Deadline: Midnight on the specified date (historically February 5th; check current website for 2026 deadline)
• Note: Add internships@btiscience.org AND info@bticornellinternships.com to email contacts to ensure receipt of communications
• Check spam folder for confirmation emails if not received
• Recommenders should also check spam folders