Applications for the 2026 summer NSF & USDA-funded Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) programs are now open!
You can find the 2026 REU poster here. You may also head to https://reu.btiscience.org/ to learn more about the program and how to apply!
There are two REU programs: Plant Genome REU and Programmable Plant Systems REU through the Boyce Thompson Institute on Cornell University’s campus in Ithaca, NY. Applications are being handled through NSF’s ETAP application portal, making it easier for applicants to apply to both programs and other REU programs nationwide.
The Programmable Plant Systems REU is scheduled to open within the next couple of weeks!
Program Benefits and Details:
- PAID 10-week hands-on educational research opportunity
- Program runs from June 1, 2026 to August 7, 2026
- Hosted by BTI on Cornell University’s campus in Ithaca, NY
- $7000 stipend
- $850 meal stipend
- Up to a $700 travel allowance
- Free housing on Cornell Campus
- Professional development opportunities in science communication, bioinformatics, and STEM graduate and career pathways
- Access to an extensive network of plant scientists and engineers
Applications are due February 2, 2026.
Please contact Megan Truesdail, Education and Outreach Lead at the Boyce Thompson Institute, at mlg235@cornell.edu with any questions.
About “Research Experiences for Undergraduate” programs: Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) are National Science Foundation-funded research programs aimed to give undergraduate students hands-on and meaningful experience conducting research at a partnering host institute. USDA funds a similar program called REEU, or Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates. These paid opportunities provide each student with an independent research project, professional development opportunities, insight into graduate school and career pathways, and allow them to work closely with a research and/or faculty mentor. To learn more: https://new.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/research-experiences-undergraduates-reu or https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/funding-opportunities/agriculture-food-research-initiative-education-workforce-development
About Boyce Thompson Institute: Boyce Thompson Institute (BTI) is a premier life sciences research institution and world leader in plant research located in Ithaca, New York on the Cornell University campus. BTI scientists conduct investigations into fundamental plant and life sciences research with the goals of increasing food security, improving environmental sustainability in agriculture, and making basic discoveries that will enhance human health. For over 24 years BTI has been inspiring undergraduates to discover how a career in research can have a positive impact on our world. To learn more: btiscience.org
