INBRE Scholar Program
$18,500 Fellowship in Biomedical Research
ABOUT THE PROGRAM:
INBRE is a scholarship program that selects highly qualified undergraduates for an opportunity to pursue original biomedical research within academic laboratories in Nebraska. It is geared to those aspiring to pursue advanced education in biomedical research (i.e., a Ph.D. degree). The program requires a two-year commitment. Usually, 3-4 new students will be selected as INBRE scholars each year. For more information, visit http://www.unmc.edu/inbre and https://biosci.unl.edu/inbre-scholar-program.
WHO CAN APPLY?
Any student, generally in their second year (i.e., sophomores), who will not graduate until May 2027 is eligible. Students pursuing a major in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) are ideally suited for this program. This program is intended for students preparing themselves for educational or employment opportunities in a field of biomedical/STEM research after completion of their undergraduate degree.
PROGRAM BENEFITS:
• $4,000 for the first summer conducting research at a major research institution in Nebraska; $4,000 for each academic year of participation; and $4,500 for the second summer for research conducted at the scholar’s home institution.
• Free housing for the first and second summers. If housing is not needed, then $1,000 will be added to each summer stipend.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS:
• Complete a 10-week summer training program in biomedical research within a laboratory at UNMC, UNL, or Creighton during the first summer in the program (in 2025, starting May 27th and ending August 1st). Scholars must devote full time effort (40 hours per week).
• Join an INBRE-supported research laboratory at UNL and conduct original research for the next two academic years and the summer in between. This will require ~10 hours/week during the academic year and 40 hours/week during the summer. Potential mentors at UNL: https://www.unmc.edu/inbre/mentors/inbre-mentors/unl/index.html.
• Participate in statewide book/journal club discussions during the academic year. This consists of completing required reading beforehand and then discussing the selected reading during a meeting with other INBRE scholars and faculty from across the state. This typically occurs twice per semester via Zoom.
• Attend local UNL INBRE activities throughout the year, such as informal social events, training workshops, practice presentations, and meetings with INBRE program leadership.
• Present research results during both junior and senior years at the annual INBRE meeting in August (for 2025, August 3rd-5th) and the Nebraska Academy of Sciences meeting in April (for 2024, April 25th). Presenting at additional local, regional, and national venues is also strongly encouraged if resources and circumstances allow.
Note: This program involves a significant time commitment that will limit the ability of INBRE scholars to work another job on or off campus. Outside employment and enrollment in summer courses are not allowed during the 10-week summer research sessions. Some degree of employment can occur during the academic years, but scholars should talk to their local INBRE campus leadership about any additional work (such as being a Teaching Assistant) and will need to ensure that they can complete their responsibilities for the INBRE program. INBRE scholars should not work in a second lab or receive payment from the UNL UCARE program or other research funding. Considering these expectations, the NE-INBRE program provides the stipends described above to help address scholars’ financial obligations. For further info, contact Dr. Brian Couch at bcouch2@unl.edu or Dr. Angie Pannier at apannier2@unl.edu.
INBRE Scholar Application
A complete application packet for the INBRE scholar program must be submitted by Monday, December 23, 2024. Submit application electronically to INBRE Fellowship Selection Committee, Attn: Dr. Brian Couch, School of Biological Sciences, bcouch2@unl.edu.
A complete application consists of the following items, submitted together as one document in the following order:
• Application form (two pages, see below)
• Statement of interest: up to 2 pages, double-spaced, 12 pt font. Address each of the following questions:
o Where did you first heard about the INBRE program.
o Why are you interested in biomedical research?
o What are your future educational and career goals following graduation from UNL?
o How will this program benefit your career goals?
o Do you have any research experience?
o Which UNL lab(s) you are most interested in working in (see link above) and why?
Note: You are encouraged to speak to former or current INBRE scholars about the program.
• Official or unofficial copy of your most recent UNL transcript
• Resume/CV
Also: Arrange for one letter of recommendation to be emailed directly to Dr. Brian Couch. The letter should address the applicant’s scientific potential, academic performance, research experience, and personal character.
Students selected for interviews will be contacted by the INBRE Campus Coordinator, Dr. Brian Couch.
Personal information (please complete legibly)
First name Last name
Address
City State Zip
Phone number UNL Email
Are you a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident? □ Yes □ No
Academics
Class status Fr. So. Jr. Sr.
Major(s) Minor(s)
Cumulative GPA STEM GPA
Recommendation letter
Ask your reference to send their letter by email directly to bcouch2@unl.edu by the application deadline.
Reference
Name Phone number
Email Relationship
More details at: https://bcouch2@unl.edu