For University of the Virgin Islands undergraduates curious about research, the Emerging Caribbean Scientists Program is coordinating undergraduate research training across STEM fields at UVI.
Students who apply gain access to paid internships, academic year scholarships, workshops, and UVI’s annual undergraduate research symposium. “We want students to know that research isn’t something you have to be an expert in to try. We have opportunities for students at different stages, whether they’re sure they want a research career or just starting to explore,” says Alice Stanford, professor of biology and coordinator of the ECS program.
The current application cycle includes research internships for Summer 2026, Fall 2026, and Spring 2027. These positions allow students to work full-time for six to twelve weeks while being monitored by experienced researchers. “Each student is matched with a research mentor and project that aligns with their career interests,” Stanford said. Mentors include UVI faculty as well as professionals at partner agencies.
Academic year scholarships are also available through specific grant- and donation-funded programs. These scholarships often come with additional expectations, such as maintaining a minimum GPA, attending conferences, or participating in research seminars. “Students doing environmental or marine science internships may spend most of the day outside collecting data, and computer science interns may spend most of the day coding. The goal is active, hands-on experience in the student’s field,” Stanford said.
ECS supports students across a wide range of disciplines, including biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering, marine biology, nursing, physics, psychology, and social science.
The program’s support doesn’t end when the internship does. ECS also helps students travel to workshops and academic conferences, experiences that can shape a young researcher’s career. “Presenting at a conference allows students to share their work, build professional networks, and see the broader research community. It’s often a turning point for students in terms of seeing themselves as scientists,” Stanford said.
Students can learn more about ECS by visiting the program’s website or emailing directly ecs@uvi.edu.
