About the SEAR Program

The Second-Year Experience At Research (SEAR) Program is dedicated to providing opportunities for students to engage in bona fide research experiences during the summer between their second and third years with a Gustavus faculty mentor in the Natural Sciences and Mathematics. New in 2024, we hope to obtain grant funding to sustain this program in the future. 

The application process consists of students submitting a transcript, and answering four short essay questions. Students are also asked to meet with a minimum of three faculty members who are participating in the program, about their research projects, and then rank their project choices. Selection of students to participate in the program is based on academic performance, input provided about applicants by three references, and the potential impact of the SEAR Program experience on the development of the applicant as a scientist, as judged by the SEAR Program faculty.

This year we are excited to offer this amazing opportunity to several more Gusties who are currently in their second year of study. As part of the experience students are supported with a stipend for the ten-week research experience, and on-campus housing. The collaborative efforts between each student and their faculty mentor are also supported by funds to pay for research supplies, and a modest stipend to the faculty mentor.

Interested students can learn more about project opportunities and the application process for the coming summer by following the links on the left sidebar. Questions can also be directed to the current SEAR Program Director - Professor of Chemistry, Dr. Amanda Nienow - by emailing to anienow@gustavus.edu.