The Beckman Foundation's 2026 Scholars Program Receives New Awardees
The Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation has proudly announced the selection of the 2026 Beckman Scholars Program awardees, comprising an admirable collection of U.S. colleges and universities dedicated to advancing basic research in the fields of chemistry and the life sciences. Over $2.1 million in funds will be allocated to these 14 institutions to bolster undergraduate research initiatives, emphasizing the foundation's mission to stimulate the next generation of scientific innovation.
The selected awardee institutions are impressive in their rigor and excellence, having gone through a meticulous application process culminating in a scientific review by a panel of experts. Each institution will receive the resources needed to support six Scholar-Mentor pairs, allowing two Scholars to be named each year over the three-year duration of the award term. This year's funding will support a total of 84 undergraduate Beckman Scholars.
Among the distinguished institutions receiving awards are Binghamton University (SUNY), Bowdoin College, Butler University, Emory University, Harvey Mudd College, Pomona College, San Jose State University, St. Olaf College, Syracuse University, University of Arkansas, University of California, Los Angeles, University of Cincinnati, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and the University of Pennsylvania.
Dr. Anne Hultgren, the Executive Director and CEO of the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm for the program. "Fostering undergraduate researchers and inspiring them to explore new ideas and experiences under the guidance of excellent mentors is central to our Beckman Scholars Program. We celebrate the 2026 BSP Awardee Institutions and look forward to welcoming their aspiring young scientists into our community of Beckman Scholars. Congratulations to both the students and mentors! Your talent and commitment represent the future of scientific discovery."
The Beckman Scholars Program is structured to provide 15-month mentored research experiences for outstanding undergraduate students specializing in chemistry, biological sciences, and interdisciplinary studies. This unique program not only hones academic skills but also encourages creativity and problem-solving, equipping students with the competencies required for future scientific pursuits.
Founded in 1977 by Dr. Arnold O. Beckman, a pioneer in scientific instrumentation, the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation is located in Irvine, California. It has continuously supported researchers and nonprofit research institutions to catalyze the next wave of breakthroughs in chemistry and the life sciences. With this latest scholarship round, the foundation reaffirms its commitment to supporting U.S. institutions and young scientists who are engaged in creative, high-risk, and interdisciplinary research, ultimately leading to tools, methods, and innovations for significant scientific advancements.
Having fostered thousands of young researchers over the years, the Beckman Foundation is a celebrated pillar in the scientific community. The 2026 Beckman Scholars Program represents a bright future for undergraduate researchers, who will contribute their talents, insights, and dedication to scientific discovery over the years to come.