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CLAS Scholars

The CLAS Scholars Program (CSP) gives undergraduate students an opportunity to work one- on-one with a CLAS faculty member on a research project. Scholars can pursue a variety of different types of projects including laboratory-based research, field work, and scholarly activities. Through this program, CLAS Scholars will gain valuable insights into how research is performed and how new knowledge is created. Up to 25 CLAS Scholars will be selected in the Spring 2024 semester for the 2024-25 academic year.

Program Details

  • CLAS Scholars will be awarded a $2,000 stipend ($1,000 in the fall semester and $1,000 in the spring semester).
  • The CLAS Scholar will have an additional $1,000 total available to attend a conference, travel to support their project, and for research supplies. These funds must be used by the CLAS Scholar in support of their research.

Eligibility and Nominations

  • CLAS Units can nominate up to three students.
  • Students must have a CLAS major, but students’ majors do not have to match their faculty mentors’ affiliation. It is the responsibility of the student to find a faculty mentor. All faculty mentors must be in CLAS. Students may work with more than one co-mentor, provided that their primary mentor is in CLAS.
  • Applications are submitted through the mentor’s home unit.
  • Research can be begun during the summer of the current academic year (optional). Research must occur during both semesters of the academic year following acceptance of the award.
  • Applicants must have an overall 3.0 GPA, be enrolled for at least one credit, and have a graduation date of no sooner than May 2025.
  • Students can be nominated for both the CLAS Scholars and University Scholars Program.
  • Students cannot hold a CLAS Scholar and a similar award at the same time (for example an Emerging Scholar or University Scholar award).

Application Process

Applicants must submit:

  • An application (PDF)
  • A typed research proposal (a maximum of two single-spaced pages excluding
    references/bibliography).
  • A letter of support from your faculty mentor

All materials should be turned in to the Undergraduate Coordinator of the Faculty Mentor’s Unit by February 2nd.

For more information and sample application materials, join the Beyond 120 canvas group here.

Responsibilities

  • CLAS scholars are expected to submit a research paper for possible publication in the Journal of Undergraduate Research by the end of the spring term of their CLAS Scholarship.
  • Students are required to present their research results at the annual UF Undergraduate Research Symposium or similar venue. For example, a presentation at a regional or national meeting, with approval of your faculty mentor, can fulfil this requirement. CLAS Scholars are encouraged to present their research both within and outside of UF.

Information / Dean’s Office Contact

Brian Harfe
2014 Turlington Hall
352-392-0780
bharfe@ufl.edu