Summer 2022 funding program will increase number of undergraduate research, creative activities

For many Ohio University students, summer offers an exciting opportunity to engage in research and creative experiences that will prepare them for graduate school or their first job after graduation.

For summer 2022, the university is offering an Undergraduate Summer Internship program to fund stipends for on-campus undergraduate researchers and artists, especially those with high financial need.

OHIO has prioritized $35,000 for paid internships this coming summer and hopes to raise an additional $10,000 during a crowdfunding campaign running Nov. 23 through Dec. 31.

“During the pandemic, despite our best efforts, fewer undergraduates have been able to participate in research and creative experiences,” said Joseph Shields, Vice President for Research and Creative Activity. “From discussions with faculty, students and staff, it is clear that our students are interested in pursuing such activities but sometimes lack the personal resources to do so.”

The one-time-only Undergraduate Summer Internship program will provide stipends of up to $3,000. Funding from this program will be prioritized for Pell-eligible students but is open to all students as funds are available.

How to apply for Undergraduate Summer Internship funding

Proposal submissions are due on Thursday, Feb. 10. Full-time Ohio University faculty and administrative staff (including postdoctoral fellows) can submit one proposal.

Funds can be used to pay a student stipend and support the direct project costs (e.g., supplies, materials, project-related travel, etc.) for their research and creative activity. Awards are limited to $3,000 (no more than $500 for direct project costs, with remaining funds e.g., $2,500 to $3,000 for stipends). Funds will be available for summer 2022 only and must be used by Sept. 30, 2022.

Mentors do not need to identify a specific student for the internship prior to submission. However, students who are identified in the proposal and have financial need, as defined by Pell eligibility, will receive priority for funding.

See more details on the program and application process.

“Now that students are back more fully on campus, we need to connect them to these valuable opportunities,” Shields said. “This funding opportunity will hopefully allow our students, especially those with financial need, to participate. We are especially thankful to the Emeriti Association and Dr. Howard Dewald, professor of chemistry and biochemistry, for providing matching funds for the crowdfunding campaign.”