UC Berkeley News
Press Release

UC Berkeley Press Release

Amgen Foundation gives campus $1 million grant for undergrad science research program

– The Amgen Foundation today (Thursday, Oct. 19) announced its partnership with the University of California, Berkeley, to provide undergraduate students an opportunity to engage in a fully-funded, hands-on research experience each summer.

Amgen Scholars is a $25 million, eight-year program that will provide research experience for students interested in pursuing a graduate degree and, eventually, a career in science. The program includes partnerships with 10 of the nation's premier universities, of which three are located in the San Francisco area.

For the first phase of the program, which extends through 2010, UC Berkeley will receive $1 million over the next four years. Program participants will include UC Berkeley's own students as well as students from other accredited four-year colleges and universities in the United States, Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories.

"The Amgen Foundation's goals in launching this ambitious program are most laudable, and UC Berkeley is excited to participate," said Chancellor Robert J. Birgeneau. "The foundation's commitment and the scientific richness of Berkeley will assist exceptionally talented and highly motivated young people from across the country to cultivate their careers in science and research by preparing them for graduate studies and providing them with the skills and relationships to become future leaders in bioscience, biotechnology, and bioengineering."

Students will participate in research projects, scientific seminars and work under UC Berkeley's top academic scientists. All participating scholars also will have the opportunity to take part in an annual mid-summer, three-day symposium in California. Students will have the chance to discuss their research projects and hear firsthand from leading scientists in industry and academia.

Financial support for underrepresented students is a critical component of the program at UC Berkeley. Students will receive a competitive stipend along with room, board and a travel allowance, including travel to and from the university and symposiums.

"At Amgen, we believe we have an important responsibility to inspire and prepare the next generation of scientists," said Jean Lim, president of the Amgen Foundation. "We believe our partnership with UC Berkeley will provide students with a pivotal experience that will encourage these students to pursue further education and training in the sciences. In California alone, we are partnering with six of the state's top universities, committing a total of $6 million over the next four years."

In addition to UC Berkeley, the nine other program partners include California Institute of Technology (CalTech); Columbia University/Barnard College; Howard University; Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT); Stanford University, UCLA; UC San Diego; UCSF and University of Washington.

The Amgen Foundation seeks to advance science education; improve patient access to quality care; and strengthen the communities where Amgen staff members live and work. Since 1991, it has made $70 million in grants to local, regional and national non-profit organizations that impact society in inspiring and innovative ways. It has also supported disaster relief efforts both domestically and internationally.

For more information about Amgen Scholars, please visit: www.amgenscholars.com.

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