The FRIPS Program (Freshman Research in Plants) is a specially designed program to expose new college students to the vital and exciting research being done with plants and to encourage them to consider a research career in plant biology. FRIPS is funded by grants from the National Science Foundation. We anticipate about 15 positions will be available for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Why Study Plants?
The main components of the program are 1) paid work in a research lab (8-10 hours/week) at times that fit around the student’s class schedules), and 2) a weekly professional-development meeting.
Eligibility
- First-Year/First-Time, undergraduate student at MU
- Intended major(s) in biochemistry, biology, environmental science, computer sciences, chemistry, natural resource science, agriculture or plant sciences
- Interest in plant biology research
- U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Not participating in other research programs (ex: ASH Scholars)
Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year are now open!
Application Information Needed
- Upload resume (pdf format)
- Describe three (3) personal goals for the fall semester
- Explain interest in conducting undergraduate research during the first year of college
- Summarize any prior lab, research, or advanced computing experience (not necessary for selection)
- Consider how involvement with plant research impacts academic and/or career goals
- Explain how personal skills, strengths, and attributes will be helpful in research
Applications will be reviewed and interviews will occur on a rolling basis beginning August 24. The deadline for applications is September 6, 2026. Students may be invited for an interview prior to formal acceptance. Notification of your acceptance will be sent to your MU email address.
To view the application in PDF format, see below:
(Applications must still be submitted using the online portal – gold “Apply Now!”)
- Be exposed to various areas of cutting-edge plant science
- Attend weekly lab meetings
- Learn basic skills in lab safety, greenhouse operations, and research ethics
- Meet other first-year students interested in plant biology research
- Work in a research lab 8-10 hours per week ($15/hr)
- Learn about research opportunities and funding beyond the first year
- Refine professional skills
- Receive individual advising and coaching from their faculty mentor and program facilitator
Learn more about the program from recent press coverage in Inside Higher Ed. For specific questions, contact the Office of Undergraduate Research: 110 Student Success Center, 573-882-5979, ugr@missouri.edu.