Research Scholarships

Each year, NPC awards a $10,000 academic scholarship to one graduate-level student conducting research for the benefit of the potato industry. The winner is selected based on a number of criteria, including academic achievement, leadership abilities, potato-related areas of graduate study, benefit to the U.S. potato industry/commercial value, extracurricular activities, and grades.

To honor the foresight of the Johnsons in establishing what is now the world’s premier field station for high-altitude biology, and to honor the historic link between RMBL and Western State College, this scholarship has the purpose of supporting undergraduate students taking summer classes at RMBL, including directed research classes, or otherwise conducting undergraduate research at RMBL. Preference is given to Western State Colorado University students. Award decisions will be based on financial need and academic merit. You will be able to complete a financial aid form when completing the Coursework Application. Please note: students receiving fellowship and scholarship funds are expected to maintain a B average in their courses. Performance will be reviewed mid-way through the summer and students not in compliance will be asked to leave the field station at their own expense.

An endowment fund established to honor the father of David Inouye. Given annually to an undergraduate student researcher. Award decisions will be based on financial need and academic merit. You will be able to complete a financial aid form when completing the Coursework Application. Please note: students receiving fellowship and scholarship funds are expected to maintain a B average in their courses. Performance will be reviewed mid-way through the summer and students not in compliance will be asked to leave the field station at their own expense.

An endowment established in honor of RMBL graduate student researcher Lee Snyder. This competitive award is given annually to graduate student researchers. Award decisions will be based on financial need and academic merit. You will be able to complete a financial aid form when completing the Coursework Application. Please note: students receiving fellowship and scholarship funds are expected to maintain a B average in their courses. Performance will be reviewed mid-way through the summer and students not in compliance will be asked to leave the field station at their own expense.

This program targets students who wish to conduct a full-time independent research project in field biology. Applicants may be currently enrolled in an undergraduate program, graduates of an undergraduate program, or may be early in their graduate career. Students conduct independent research under the supervision of RMBL scientists.

8 credits for independent research and 2 credits for the course. This program targets students who are relatively new to field biology as well as those who wish to receive additional background training in a particular area. Students conduct independent research under the supervision of RMBL scientists (75-80% time) while taking one of two field courses (20-25% time). Class size is limited to 12 students/course. There are a substantial number of full and partial scholarships, so financial need should not stop students from applying. Students will receive various levels of support, depending upon the strength of the application and financial need.

Approximately 10 students will be accepted with REU Awards. Students receiving an REU award may participate in either full-time independent research or independent research/course. Students accepted through the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program receive a $5,000 stipend, free room, board and travel. REU awards are restricted to students who are not only citizens or permanent residents of the United States, but also have not graduated from college before the dates of the program. Minorities underrepresented in the biological sciences are strongly encouraged to apply.