REEU Paid Internship in Natural Sciences

REEU 2026–2031 Internship is a competitive hybrid research program in natural sciences and agriculture. Students complete a year of Zoom-based learning followed by a 10-week summer internship (remote + on-campus at UMES). Includes a $5,000 stipend, housing, and hands-on research. Top students may continue for advanced research and publication.

🌱 REEU 2026–2031 Internship Program

Natural Sciences Research in Agriculture | In Partnership with University of Maryland Eastern Shore

The REEU (Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates) Internship is a highly selective, multi-year program designed for college students pursuing careers in natural sciences, agriculture, environmental systems, and technology.

Over five years, the program will support five cohorts of 6 students each, offering a unique hybrid research experience that combines academic-year learning with hands-on summer research at UMES.

Participants receive:

• $5,000 stipend
• Fully funded on-campus housing during the summer residency
• Mentorship from university researchers and industry experts
• Opportunity to contribute to real-world scientific research

🔬 Program Structure

Academic Year (Hybrid Learning Phase)

Participants engage in:

• Twice-monthly evening Zoom sessions
• Pre- and post-session assignments
• Guided research preparation and skill-building
• One required session in June prior to summer residency
• Summer Internship (10 Weeks Total)

Phase 1: Remote Research Preparation (3 weeks, June)

• Daily 8-hour Zoom sessions
• Literature review and scientific writing
• Development of research goals, materials, and methods
• Theoretical preparation for lab and field work

Phase 2: On-Campus Research at UMES (6 weeks)

• Full-time, hands-on research experience
• Work on faculty-led projects in areas such as:
  • Phytochemistry & Material Science
  • Functional Foods (e.g., aronia-based innovations)
  • Sustainable agriculture & irrigation systems
  • Natural pesticides & environmental safety
  • Bio-based extraction technologies

Phase 3: Finalization & Reporting (1 week, August)

• Remote full-time Zoom sessions
• Data analysis and report writing
• Final project submission

🌟 Mentorship & Leadership Opportunities

Participants in early cohorts (2026–2027) will also:

• Mentor high school students in the ASTEMA STEM program
• Develop leadership and teaching skills
• Collaborate across educational levels

Top-performing students may be invited for:

A second year of research
Co-authorship on a scientific publication

⚠️ Special Note on Cohorts

• Cohort 1 (Summer 2026): Begins with the summer internship, followed by the academic-year Zoom component
• Cohort 2 (Summer 2027): Follows the standard program structure (academic year first, then summer internship)
• All future cohorts: Academic year preparation → Summer internship

Important: During the 2026–2027 academic year, Cohorts 1 and 2 will participate together in the same year-long Zoom learning experience.

Applicants this spring may choose to be considered for:

• Summer 2026 (Cohort 1)
• Summer 2027 (Cohort 2)
• Or both

✅ Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Have a minimum GPA of 3.2
• Be freshmen, sophomores, or juniors at an accredited college or community college (at the time of application)
• Have completed chemistry or general biology (with labs)
• Be majoring in:
  • Chemistry / Biochemistry
  • Biology / Environmental Science
  • Agriculture / Food Science
  • Technology or Computer Science (with AI/programming background)
  • Be U.S. citizens or permanent residents
  • Demonstrate strong technical English writing and communication skills

Not eligible:

• Pre-med, pre-pharmacy, or medically oriented majors (veterinary track is allowed)

📅 Commitment Expectations

Participants must commit to:

• Academic-year Zoom sessions (2x per month + assignments)
• Full participation in all summer phases:
  • 3 weeks remote (June, full-time)
  • 6 weeks on-campus at UMES
  • 1 week remote (August, full-time)

📝 Application Process

Step 1: Preliminary Application

• Submit application via Jookender website
• Complete initial screening form

Step 2: Interview (Jookender)

• Selected applicants will be invited to a Zoom interview

Step 3: Full Application (UMES)

If selected:

• Submit materials to UMES:
  • Extended CV
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • One-page essay: “Why are you interested in STEM in agriculture and how will this internship support your career?”

Step 4: Final Selection

• Second-round interviews conducted by UMES faculty