The CUR Biology Division has opened a competitive funding pool that can provide up to $250 for eligible undergraduates. The purpose of the award is to enable students to travel to a discipline-specific meeting, present their work, and network directly with leading investigators in the field. By covering travel expenses, the program hopes to lower financial barriers that often prevent promising scholars from gaining visibility on a national stage.
While the grant welcomes abstracts submitted to any specialized biology conference, the selection panel gives preference to meetings that concentrate on a single sub-discipline. Submissions to gatherings that highlight underrepresented groups—such as SACNASABRCMS or AISES—are also eligible and will be given serious consideration.
Who can apply and what the award covers
Applicants must be enrolled as an undergraduate at a two- or four-year college or university. Students in their final semester are still eligible, provided the travel is completed within three months of graduation. A crucial requirement is that the applicant’s mentor holds CUR membership, or that the applicant’s home institution itself is a CUR member. The award is intended solely for attendance at a discipline-specific meeting or a conference centered on underrepresented populations, ensuring the experience aligns with the grant’s educational goals.
Steps to submit a successful application
The process begins with the completion of the online application form, which must be submitted before the deadline. Once the form is received, applicants are asked to provide proof of acceptance to present at the chosen meeting—this may be an abstract acceptance letter or a confirmed poster session slot. After verification, the funding is released to cover travel costs up to the $250 limit.
Selection criteria and abstract requirements
Reviewers evaluate each submission on three primary dimensions: the scholarly merit of the abstract the justification for attending the selected conference, and the anticipated professional benefits of the experience. The abstract itself must be concise—150 to 250 words—and contain a clear objective (unless it is evident in the title), a brief methods description when appropriate, a summary of results, a definitive conclusion (avoid phrasing like “results will be discussed”), and a statement of significance.
In addition to the abstract, applicants should articulate how the conference will enhance their research trajectory, expand their professional network, and contribute to their long-term career plans. Demonstrating a genuine link between the event’s focus and the student’s academic interests strengthens the case for funding.
Contact information and past recipients
Questions regarding eligibility, application details, or the review timeline can be directed to Dr. Susan Klinedinst. Each year, a small cohort of students receives the award and reports back on the value of presenting at venues such as SACNAS or ABRCMS, citing increased confidence, new collaborations, and expanded visibility for their work.
By removing financial hurdles, the program strives to nurture the next generation of biologists and ensure diverse voices are represented at key disciplinary gatherings.
