Explorers and Scholars Program

The USciences Explorers and Scholars in Science Program allows highly qualified first year students to gain valuable research skills and apply theoretical principles learned in class to practical problems in pharmaceutical sciences and pharmacology/toxicology.

Selected students conduct eight weeks (224 hours) of full time research with a faculty mentor* during the summer following their first undergraduate year at USciences.  The program includes a stipend award of $2,240. At the end of the research experience, scholars will present their research findings to faculty, graduate students, and fellow undergraduate researchers at a summer research symposium.

Eligibility and Application

Based on outstanding academic achievement in high school, first-year students admitted into the pharmaceutical sciences and pharmacology and toxicology programs will be automatically evaluated for the program.  A letter of invitation will be included in acceptance materials. Participation is voluntary and you need not make a final decision until October of your first year.

Candidates for the program will have high SAT/ACT scores and an excellent academic record in high school. All participants will be expected to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 during their first academic year.

*Faculty Mentors

Faculty in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences conduct research in a wide range of  specialties. While research with a specific faculty member is contingent upon availability of space within that laboratory, below is information about our faculty and their research interests.