MTBI - another exciting STEM Opportunity

Because of the Civil Rights/MLK holiday on Monday of this week I was not able to meet the time commitment I usually dedicate to my internship with Mrs. Behrens. Fortunately, I have recently learned about an exciting research opportunity for this summer and I spent the afternoon at ASU researching the details.

The Mathematical and Theoretical Biological Institute (MTBI) is an undergraduate/graduate research program that was founded by Carlos Castillo-Chavez in 1996 at Cornell University.  The program was moved to ASU in 2004 and offers an intensive eight week summer research experience that “prepares promising young scientists interested in working at the interface of mathematics, statistics and the natural and social sciences for the rigors of graduate studies.”

Dr. Castillo-Chavez is a Regents Professor at ASU and he has designed this program primarily for underrepresented minority students and women who are interested in pursuing advanced degrees. His success lies in the creation of an “environment where mentorship, cooperative learning and leadership training play a critical role.” The goal of the program is to provide participants with comprehensive research experience including: literature reviews, formation of research questions and models, analyzing models and exposing students to current issues while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

Eligibility is restricted to undergraduates who have completed 60 credits and are majoring in math, biology or a related field. Applicants must have at least one year of calculus.  (It sounds tailor made for S-STEM!)

This years’ program is scheduled to take place from June 5 – July 27. The application deadline, however is MARCH 1! Complete applications must include: the MTBI application, personal statement (500 words), official transcripts and one faculty letter of recommendation.

Successful applicants will receive room and board as well as a $3,000 stipend. They also have a $500 travel award for those coming from outside the Valley of the Sun.

The link to access more information and the application is:
http://mtbi.asu.edu/home