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

February 1, 2026 (Full application & letters of recommendation)

Up to $10,000 per award; supports research and, in some cases, living expenses.

Supports graduate and advanced undergraduate research on comparative biology of woody plants, with preference for projects using Arnold Arboretum living collections.

--- ## Description The Deland Award for Student Research provides funding for graduate and advanced undergraduate students pursuing investigations in the comparative biology of woody plants. Eligible research areas include developmental biology, physiology, genetics, reproductive biology, and ecology. While any relevant project is considered, preference is given to proposals that make use of the living collections at the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University. The award aims to support research expenses and, in some cases, living expenses incurred during the research period. --- ## Due Dates - February 1, 2026: Full application submission deadline (online application window closes) - February 1, 2026: Letters of recommendation upload deadline (referees must submit by this date) --- ## Funding Amount - Awards are up to $10,000 each. - Funds may be used for research expenses and, in some cases, living expenses during the research period. - Award funds are not intended to supplement or replace departmental salaries or stipends but may be used for the stipend/salary of an undergraduate intern appointed through the recipient's home institution. --- ## Eligibility - Open to advanced undergraduate and graduate students. - Research must focus on the comparative biology of woody plants (fields such as developmental biology, physiology, genetics, reproductive biology, or ecology). - Preference is given to projects utilizing the living collections of the Arnold Arboretum. --- ## Application Process - Applications must be submitted online via the [Arnold Arboretum application portal](https://arboretumscholars.communityforce.com/Funds/Search.aspx) between November 5 and February 1. - Required materials: - Cover letter - 1–2 page research statement (including use of Arboretum collections and collaborators) - 1-page research budget - Project timeline (start and end dates) - Curriculum vitae - Two letters of recommendation (referees must upload by February 1) - Recommendation letters are requested through the application portal; applicants should notify referees in advance. --- ## Additional Information - Selection is based on the applicant’s academic background, readiness to conduct the proposed research, quality of the proposal, and its relevance to the Arboretum’s collections. - For questions about the award, Arboretum resources, or the application process, contact the selection committee at arbscholars@fas.harvard.edu. --- ## External Links - [Program page and details](https://arboretum.harvard.edu/research/programs-and-opportunities/the-deland-award-for-student-research/) - [Application portal](https://arboretumscholars.communityforce.com/Funds/Search.aspx) - [Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University](https://arboretum.harvard.edu) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact | |------------------------------|------------------------------------------| | General inquiries / questions| arbscholars@fas.harvard.edu | | Arnold Arboretum main office | arbweb@arnarb.harvard.edu \| 617.384.5454| | Contact form | [Contact Us](https://arboretum.harvard.edu/visit#contact_us) |

The Deland Award for Student Research - Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University

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