The Science Pathways Scholars Program – (SP)² – is a highly selective four-year program that supports talented young students from low-income or first-generation households, who convey strong interest in biology, chemistry, computer science, environmental science, physics/astronomy, or neuroscience. Students who are selected as (SP)² Scholars will benefit from an exceptional set of opportunities and resources.

(SP)² Scholars have been supported by generous grants from the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations, the National Science Foundation, and the Blankfein Family. 

Faculty Mentorship

Faculty mentorship is a cornerstone of these programs. Students are assigned a faculty mentor in their first year who will guide them through the program and science opportunities. For more information about the faculty mentors, click on their bios below.  

A Cohort of Likeminded Peers

A series of seminars, discussion sessions, and social events with other (SP)² participants and faculty leaders, beginning with a one-credit science journal course in the first year. Other events scheduled throughout all four undergraduate years at Barnard help build a collaborative and engaging environment and a network of mutual support among peers and near peers.

Paid Summer Research Positions

During the three summers of a Scholar’s years at Barnard, hands-on lab research experiences with Barnard faculty will be available. Scholars will receive compensation and subsidized summer housing through Barnard’s Summer Research Institute.

Academic Year Opportunities

Opportunities to conduct research in faculty labs during the academic year.

Faculty mentorship is a cornerstone of these programs. Students are assigned a faculty mentor in their first year who will guide them through the program and science opportunities. For more information about the faculty mentors, click on their bios below. 

Rachel Austin (Chemistry)
Elizabeth Bauer (Neuroscience)
John Glendinning (Biology)
Reshmi Mukherjee (Physics and Astronomy)
Sedelia Rodriguez  (Environmental Science)
Mark Santolucito (Computer Science)

 

Eligibility for (SP)²

• Students must be applying to Barnard as first-year students and demonstrate an initial interest in biology, chemistry, computer science, environmental science, physics/astronomy or neuroscience, and select one of these as a major to continue in the program all 4 years.
• Students must be low-income, as defined by the financial aid materials, or a first-generation student with parents who did not complete a four-year college degree.
• Students admitted to Barnard generally will be notified of their selection as (SP)² Scholars at time of admission.