91心頭利

Skip to main content
Close menu 91心頭利

Distinguished Senior Awards in Biology

 Overview

The Biology Department annually presents two competitive awards to graduating majors who represent the highest standards of scholarship and departmental engagement. These awards recognize students who have not only excelled academically but have also made significant contributions to the life of the department.

  • The Distinguished Senior Award in Molecular & Cellular Biology
  • The Distinguished Senior Award in Organismal Biology
  • Award Amount: $500 for each recipient.

Nomination Criteria

Faculty mentors may nominate graduating seniors who meet the following comprehensive requirements:

  • Academic Standing: Must be a graduating senior with an excellent academic record and a high GPA within the Biology major.
  • Departmental Engagement: Must be active in biology education through research, mentoring, or leadership roles within the department.
  • Personal Qualities: Candidates should exhibit enthusiasm, independence, and the potential to be a strong ambassador for science in their future endeavors.
  • Career Focus: Preference is given to students planning a career in the biological sciences (e.g., research, medicine, education, or environmental policy).

Application Package Requirements

The application should be developed by the student in close consultation with their faculty mentor. All of the following materials must be included for the application to be considered complete:

  1. Student Statement: A personal reflection on your achievements and how a liberal arts education in biology has shaped your future career plans and scientific perspective.
  2. Comprehensive Résumé: Prepared by the student, including:
    • Research and Travel Grants: Details on any internal or external funding secured.
    • Conference Presentations: Full details including the name of the conference, location, and date.
    • Publications: Full citations for any peer-reviewed work or published abstracts.
    • Future Plans: Post-graduation plans and any other relevant awards or honors.
  3. Academic Records: A copy of the student's current GPA and unofficial transcript.
  4. Letters of Support: Two letters from faculty members who can attest to the student’s academic and research excellence.

Submission Instructions

To ensure a professional and complete submission, the faculty mentor is responsible for submitting the complete application package and the letters of support.

  • 2025–2026 91心頭利 Submission Contact: Professor Diane Shakes (Chair of the Undergraduate Studies Committee).
  • Selection: Awardees are chosen by the Undergraduate Studies Committee (USC) and recognized at the Biology Graduation Ceremony.