This committee oversees student activities throughout the society by working with the Student Representatives on the Executive Board. Areas of concern for the committee are professional development and mentorship for early career researchers including undergraduates, graduates, postdoctoral fellows, and new faculty. The efforts of this committee should include, but are not limited to, implementing mentorship programs within BSA in regard to peer review and grant writing, creating general training opportunities for early career members, and maintaining early career membership. This committee will collaborate with the Student Representatives on student activities, including CV reviews and Careers in Botany Luncheon, at the annual meeting and throughout the year. Each year, new members join the committee as the same number of members rotates off. This committee is chaired by a member serving their third year on the committee.

Both Student Representatives to the Board will serve on this committee.  The remainder of the committee will be comprised of non-student members.

Committee membership is open to all membership types except for students who are already represented on the committee by the two Student Representatives on the BSA Board. Committees strive for both institutional/organizational and geographic diversity. Committee members are expected to participate and be engaged in committee activities and have a genuine interest in the mission of the committee.

At least two meetings per year plus additional involvement in committee or subcommittee activities. Members serve three-year terms, except for student members whose terms are for two years.

Those interested in being considered for committee service should complete a short application (200 words or less) that includes a statement of interest highlighting your expertise, experience, and interest in serving on this particular committee. Applications are accepted December 1 – February 1 and will be reviewed by the Committee on Committees. Committee appointments are typically made in May to begin in July. Questions about committee membership? Send an email to bsa-manager@botany.org.

To apply to be on this committee, click here and sign in with your BotanyID and password. Only committees that have openings will appear on the BSA Committee Application website. Once you open an application, you should see the blue button "Create New Committee Application." If you do not see the blue button, or need other assistance, email bsa-manager@botany.org.