Project Grant 2546940

The National Science Foundation's Division of Biological Infrastructure awarded $298,630 to the Missouri Botanical Garden on April 15, 2026, to establish a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site focused on botany and conservation biology. Over the three-year award period (2026-2029), the program will train approximately 30 undergraduate students, with 8 students participating each summer for 10-week sessions, primarily targeting students from institutions with limited research opportunities. Students will conduct individual research projects under the mentorship of Garden staff across multiple research divisions, with project opportunities in plant ecology, restoration ecology, taxonomy and systematics, conservation biology and population genetics, and ethnobotany.

The program delivers comprehensive research training and professional development services, including instruction in ethics and responsible conduct of research, research methods and project design, scientific writing, and oral and poster presentation skills. Participants will engage in group educational sessions, weekly seminars, and journal club activities, culminating in a research symposium where students present their findings. The program emphasizes practical research experience that frequently results in student co-authorship of peer-reviewed journal articles, while also providing staff mentors with professional development and teaching opportunities. Program outcomes and lasting benefits will be assessed through post-program surveys and five-year follow-up evaluations of participating students.