Seed-to-Root research fellowship program

Itasca Station provides research funding opportunities for post-docs, graduate and undergraduate students through its own "Seed-to-Root" program. Short-term 'seed' grants are a good way to spark science. They facilitate preliminary, higher risk efforts focused in up-and-coming creative spaces (e.g., techniques, emerging theory). Field stations, however, focus on places with particular qualities amenable to sustaining longer-term research. Itasca Station has hosted place-based field biology since 1907, and is uniquely suited for teaching and engagement. With this in mind, Seed-to-Root grants target new investments at IBSL, combining funding, support, and flexibility to encourage science to take root.

Seed-to-Root eligibility criteria

Only single-investigator (one student per award), single-project proposals allowed.
Research must be done in or near Itasca State Park.
Award period is April 1, 2026 through March 31, 2027.
Students must be in residence at Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories for a portion of their research.
Applications must be from full-time students. Historically, preference has been for University of Minnesota campus (system-wide) students, but non-University of Minnesota students will be considered.
Applicants must be working with a faculty advisor who is responsible for oversight of the project (a letter of support is required).
Budgets may include funding for research expenses and lodging/dining expenses, in addition to supplies and services. Salary is not allowed.
- Graduate students: $5,000 budget limit
- Undergraduate students: $1,500 budget limit
Awardees may be asked to participate in a science communication event at the station and/or present a technical talk as part of Itasca's summer seminar series. They may also be asked to attend a CBS Recognition & Appreciation Dinner in the fall.