The Botany in Action (BIA) Fellowship program at Phipps Conservatory fosters the development of the next generation of plant-based scientists who are committed, first, to excellent research, and second, to educational outreach. Open to Ph.D. students enrolled at U.S. graduate institutions and conducting plant-based scientific research, the program provides each fellow with: 1) $6,000 for use towards research- and outreach-related expenses at sites in the US or abroad, 2) an all-expenses paid trip to Phipps to engage in science outreach training and opportunities, and 3) subsequent opportunities to connect their research with the public through programs, exhibits, and other outreach venues.

Research Priority Areas (listed in no particular order):

• Ethnobotany, with special interest in plant use for physical and/or psychological well-being;
• Diversity and conservation, particularly in regional (southwest Pennsylvania and adjacent states) and tropical forests;
• Landscape and brownfield restoration, particularly in plant-based ecosystem services;
• Sustainable landscapes;
• Interdisciplinary plant-based research at the intersection of human and environmental health.

Eligibility Requirements: All applicants must be:

• Enrolled in a PhD program at a US graduate institution (US citizenship is not required)
• Conducting plant-based research
• Able to travel to Pittsburgh, PA from a location within the US (costs will be reimbursed) for the duration of the Botany in Action Science Engagement Week, which will be September 11 – 14, 2025
• Able to commit to monthly online outreach (e.g. podcast, blogging, vlogging, etc) after Science Engagement Week. 

Applications are due January 10, 2025. For full program details, check out our website (https://www.phipps.conservatory.org/green-innovation/for-the-world/botany-in-action/ ). Please reach out to me at mwheeler-dubas@phipps.conservatory.org  if you have any questions!

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