A multi-component scholars program supported by the Provost’s Office of Duke University and the Oak Foundation, is designed to promote a community of exceptional undergraduate scholars and to provide individuals in this community with mentorship, resources, and co-curricular activities.

For additional information, please email or call:
Undergraduate Program Coordinator, Katie Wood
katie.wood@duke.edu (252) 504-7586

Marine Lab Scholars
To be designated a Marine Lab Scholar, students must complete at least one marine science course at the Duke Marine Lab, with a grade point average of 3.5 or above. Marine Lab Scholars are eligible to apply to become Rachel Carson Scholars, selecting academic or research-focused programs.

Rachel Carson Scholars
Rachel Carson Scholars will spend an additional semester or both summer sessions enrolled at the Marine Lab and will enjoy programs designed to build collaborations and to provide enhanced mentoring through frequent student-faculty interactions.  Faculty will meet regularly with Rachel Carson Scholars for meals and informal field excursions, with the goal of building solid lines of communication and community among the Scholars and faculty.  Rachel Carson scholars will receive travel support up to $1000 per student to attend a professional meeting with a faculty mentor, and are eligible to apply for up to $5000 in support of research.  Students are responsible for all tuition, room & board costs associated with their enrollment at the Marine Lab. Acceptance into the Rachel Carson Scholars program will not affect a student's financial aid package and does not preclude students from applying for additional sources of financial assistance.

Current Rachel Carson Scholars

Students accepted into the Rachel Carson Scholars program will pursue one of two paths:

Rachel Carson Academic Scholars

1. Identify a faculty mentor at the Marine Lab;
2. Complete at least three marine science courses with a grade point average of 3.5 or better;
3. Complete an oral presentation or exam that demonstrates the student’s broad knowledge of marine science; and
4. Attend a national or regional meeting with other Rachel Carson Scholars and faculty mentors.

Rachel Carson Research Scholars

1. Identify a faculty research advisor at the Marine Lab;
2. Prepare a research proposal and compete for up to $5000 in research funds;
3. Undertake an independent research project;
4. Complete an honor’s thesis based on this research; and
5. Present results of this research at a national or regional meeting with other Rachel Carson Scholars and faculty mentors.

Rachel Carson Scholars Program Frequently Asked Questions

Rachel Carson Scholars Videos
Travel with Rachel Carson Scholar, Pen-Yuan Hsing, to the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium during the 4th International Symposium on Chemosynthesis-based Ecosystems held in Okinawa, Japan from June 29 to July 3, 2009. Includes extra behind the scenes footage with whale shark tank.

Photos and footage from the 4th International Symposium on Chemosynthesis-based Ecosystems held in Okinawa, Japan from June 29 to July 3, 2009 by Rachel Carson Scholar, Pen-Yuan Hsing.

If you have questions about the program and how to enroll please contact:
Katie Wood, Undergraduate Program Coordinator
Phone: 252-504-7586, Email: katie.wood@duke.edu