[Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University](https://arboretum.harvard.edu)

February 15, 2026 (Application submission & letter of recommendation upload)

$6,250 stipend for 10 weeks; up to $550 travel reimbursement

Hands-on summer research internship for undergraduates in plant biodiversity, with mentorship and scientific communication training.

--- ## Description The DaRin Butz Foundation Research Internship Program at the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University is a ten-week, full-time summer internship designed for undergraduates in the life sciences. Participants engage in original research projects related to plant biodiversity under the guidance of Arboretum advisors, gaining experience in all stages of scientific research—from project development to dissemination of results. Interns join weekly reading groups, participate in scientific activities, and present their work at an end-of-program symposium. Research themes include plant adaptation and speciation, urban ecosystems, evolutionary diversification, ecosystem ecology, and global change. The program emphasizes mentorship, hands-on research, and training in scientific communication. --- ## Due Dates - **February 15, 2026:** Application submission deadline - **February 15, 2026:** Letter of recommendation upload deadline --- ## Funding Amount - **Stipend:** $6,250 for the ten-week program (June 1 – August 7, 2026) - **Travel Reimbursement:** Up to $550 for one round-trip between the intern's home and Boston (actual airfare or mileage at IRS rate) --- ## Eligibility - Must be enrolled in an undergraduate degree program in the life sciences (part-time or full-time) leading to a baccalaureate or associate degree at the time of application. - High school graduates not yet enrolled and those who have already received their undergraduate degree are not eligible. - Prior research experience is **not required**. - Must be authorized to work in the United States. - Must be able to work full time (40 hours/week) for the entire ten-week term; late starts, early departures, or vacations during the program are not permitted (except for official Harvard holidays). - Previous participants in the program are not eligible to reapply. - Harvard does not provide health insurance for interns; all healthcare costs are the intern's responsibility. - The program encourages applications from groups underrepresented in the sciences. --- ## Application Process - **Online Application:** Submit through the [program portal](https://arboretumscholars.communityforce.com/Funds/Search.aspx). - **Required Materials:** - Cover letter (1–2 pages): State your interest in the program and research topic, career objectives, and how the internship supports your goals. - Resume. - Unofficial transcript (PDF or screenshot). - One letter of recommendation: Request via the application portal; referees must upload by February 15, 2026. - **Advisor Selection:** Applicants should review potential advisors and research topics listed on the program page and contact advisors early to express interest. --- ## Additional Information - Program dates: June 1 – August 7, 2026. - Interns are expected to participate fully in all program activities and the work-life of the Arboretum. - The program supports equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging. - For questions, contact the selection committee at [arbscholars@fas.harvard.edu](mailto:arbscholars@fas.harvard.edu). --- ## External Links - [Program Information & Application](https://arboretum.harvard.edu/research/programs-and-opportunities/darin-butz-foundation-research-internship-program/) - [FAQs](https://arboretum.harvard.edu/research/programs-and-opportunities/darin-butz-foundation-research-internship-program/frequently-asked-questions/) - [Arnold Arboretum – Research Opportunities](https://arboretum.harvard.edu/research/programs-and-opportunities/) --- ## Contact Information | Contact | Email | Phone | Web Contact | |------------------------|------------------------------------------|---------------|---------------------------------------------------| | Selection Committee | [arbscholars@fas.harvard.edu](mailto:arbscholars@fas.harvard.edu) | | | | Arnold Arboretum Admin | [arbweb@arnarb.harvard.edu](mailto:arbweb@arnarb.harvard.edu) | 617.384.5454 | [Contact Form](https://arboretum.harvard.edu/visit#contact_us) |

DaRin Butz Foundation Research Internship Program - Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University

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