How can I get more information about the program application?

Attend a virtual application information session or email urbanbarcode@cshl.edu with questions. Click here to sign up for an information session on Zoom

What are you looking for in a successful UBRP applicant?

A successful applicant does not need to have taken any particular science classes before applying. Previous lab or research experience is not required. We ARE looking for students who are interested in and excited about biology, especially genetics, microbiology, and ecology.

What if I can’t attend training/interviews?

Unfortunately, there will never be a schedule that accommodates all interested students. If you cannot participate in all required UBRP activities, we encourage you to look into other DNALC programs including summer camps and Saturday DNA! sessions, and other NYC SRMC programs that may better align with your availability.

What will happen during the interviews?

For the in-person interview: students will participate in a team building exercise, a writing activity, and a group interview with a UBRP staff member. For the virtual interview: students will meet with a UBRP staff member and discuss their interests and what they hope to gain from participating in UBRP.

What should I wear to the interviews?

Wear what you would normally wear to school – but keep in mind that you will be in a lab setting and need to wear closed toe shoes and clothes you feel comfortable moving around in.

Do I need to submit a letter of recommendation, transcript, or resume?

No! UBRP staff will assess applicants based on their answers to the questions in the student application and do not require any other documentation.

 

How much time am I expected to spend working with my mentees?

Mentors and mentees set their own schedules and are paired based on overlapping availability and location. Students are expected to devote 55 hours over the course of the school year to their UBRP research project. Bear in mind that school schedules and commutes mean that teams will be meeting on evenings and/or on weekends.

What type of financial support is available?

UBRP provides a supplies and sequencing budget for each team. UBRP mentors also receive a $2,000 stipend at the end of the program year.

I work with a great high school student; can they be part of my UBRP team?

If applications are still open, please encourage them to apply! If applications have closed, we will not be able to include them in UBRP activities (although you’re welcome to have your UBRP team work alongside other students in your lab!).