Mechanisms of Behavior Program
The Mechanisms of Behavior program (MOB) is a summer research internship program that allows undergraduates to conduct supervised independent research in the field of systems and integrated neuroscience. The program was initially offered from 1993-1996, and then was renewed for the years 1998-2001 and 2004-2012. The program is sponsored by the National Science Foundation with a "Research Experiences for Undergraduates" (NSF-REU) grant.
The Summer '08 Program was a great success! Please click here for a description of the program activities on the Program's Archive Page.
Eligibility
Awards are given to qualified college students from around the country who are interested in behavioral neuroscience AND are considering a career in basic scientific research. Strong preference will be given to rising juniors (i.e., current sophomores), although awards may be made to exceptionally qualified juniors who have not had previous research opportunies. Members of minority groups that are under-represented in scientific research fields are particularly encouraged to apply. Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States.
Program
The focus of the ten-week summer program is a research mentorship with a participating faculty member at Duke University studying integrative neurobiology, systems neurobiology, or animal behavior. Students also participate in a two-day Orientation Conference at the outset of the program, and meet several times each week thereafter for seminars by participating faculty, as well as for tutorials and workshops covering topics such as experimental design and analysis, science writing and oral presentation, science ethics, career paths in science, and applying to graduate school. At the conclusion of the program, students report on their work at an Undergraduate Research Conference held jointly with other summer research programs.
Dates
The program will run from May 25 until July 31, 2009. Note that participants are required to move into the provided housing the weekend prior to the beginning of the program (on the afternoon of May 24). Participants are also required to remain for the duration of the program. Participants should plan to move out of the housing on the morning of August 1 (or the evening of July 31).
Support
Students receive a stipend of $4,250 for the 10-week program. Students are also provided with on-campus housing at no cost and given a food allowance. Students are expected to cover their own travel expenses. (Stipends may be subject to tax withholding.)
Application Procedures
Applications should include the following:
- A completed application form. Download An Application Here!
- A current official transcript of your college record.
- A 1-2 page personal statement addressing how your participation in the Mechanisms of Behavior Program will fit into your academic and career interests.
- Two (2) letters of recommendation from college faculty members or other individuals who can comment on your potential for success in a laboratory setting.
Completed applications must be received by Friday, March 6, 2009. Notification of awards will be made on or about April 3. For more information contact:
Dr. Jef Lamoureux
Co-Director, Undergraduate Neuroscience Program
Department of Psychology & Neuroscience
Duke University, Box 91050
Durham, NC 27708-1050
Phone: (919) 660-5792 or Fax: (919) 660-5798 [Email:
JEFL@PSYCH.DUKE.EDU]
** Application materials, including recommendation letters, may also be faxed or sent as email attachments. Emailed applications or recommendation letters should be sent to the program's administrative assistant, Chris Allen, at ca44@duke.edu.