Undergraduate students are invited to apply for the Latham Science Engagement Fellowship for undergraduate student researchers interested in communicating science to varied audiences. Fellows work across disciplines to collaboratively develop and implement science outreach projects.

Becoming a Latham Fellow will strengthen future career and/or award applications. Scientists who foster information-sharing and respect between science and the public are essential for the public communication of and engagement with science. Although traditional scientific training does not necessarily prepare scientists to be effective communicators outside of academia, funding agencies and research institutions are increasingly encouraging researchers to extend beyond peer-reviewed publishing and communicate their results directly to the greater public.¹ Becoming a Latham Fellow is one way for undergraduate researchers to start this conversation.

Student Benefits:

Those accepted to the Latham Fellowship Program will

• develop fluency in communicating science to diverse audiences
• work in interdisciplinary settings
• demonstrate the “broader impact” of scientific research
• strengthen future career and/or award applications
• $500 fellowship award

¹ Verbiage from American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), https://www.aaas.org/resources/communication-toolkit.

Requirements to Apply:

• Freshman, Sophomore or Junior standing
• One semester of undergraduate research experience
• GPA >3.0

Application:

• A short essay regarding your views regarding scientific engagement and meeting the needs of society in today’s world and a potential science outreach project.
• One letter of recommendation from your research advisor or mentor
• Deadline is April 17, 2023
• Apply online

Award Expectations:

• Enroll in LATH:3000 – Science Communication Skill Building in Fall 2023 and LATH:3001 – Latham Fellows: Science Outreach Project in Spring 2024.
• Fellows will receive $500 upon completion of a 1-year program ending May 31, 2024.

For questions, please contact kristina-venzke@uiowa.edu.