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PURPOSE:  The Eye Research Institute Summer Undergraduate Program in Eye Research (SUPER) provides a unique opportunity for Oakland University undergraduates to participate in NIH and other externally sponsored research under the mentorship of six ERI faculty.  SUPER scholars obtain research training in the disciplines of biochemistry, cell biology, physiology, molecular biology and neuroscience.  ALL SUPER scholarships include a Research Fellowship of $3,500.  Students will utilize the latest research methodologies sand equipment.  Scholars attend a weekly Vision Science seminar (molecular and clinical) given by ERI and Beaumont Ophthalmology Faculty, and they receive training in professional speaking and presentation (Power-Point, audiovisual). There is opportunity for students to co-author publication in scientific journals and participate in presentations at future national meetings. Numerous SUPER alumni have a well above-average success rate for entry into graduate programs, medical schools, optometry colleges, or bioscience-related employment.      

ELIGIBILITY:  Applicants must be Oakland University undergraduate students currently enrolled in a degree program, leading to a Bachelor’s degree.  The Program is ideal for sophomores or juniors who are contemplating careers in bioscience research or teaching.  Successful applicants should have at least a 3.0 grade-point average in their sciences courses, and must be planning to enroll in at least 6 credits at Oakland University for the Fall 2013 semester.  It is expected that the student will work in the lab at least 30 hours per week for 12 weeks.  Students must fulfill the minimum hours required for program completion between the hours of 8am - 5pm, Monday - Friday, or per the schedule provided by their mentor.

APPLICATION:  Students must submit a completed application form, a one-page resume, a copy of your current transcript, one letter of reference from an academic source, and a one-page, double-spaced essay describing the applicant’s career goals and interest in science.  Applications with missing information will not be considered.  Applications and complete program information are available online at:  2013 SUPER Program - Information & Application.