This page describes the process we use for matching students with SIPBS supervisors and projects for summer internships, what happens after matching, and when.
Even though we offer a matching scheme for summer internships and placements, you are at all times at liberty to pursue internships independently. There is no obligation to use the matching scheme, and whether or not you are selected through this scheme, you are of course able to apply for any internships that are available through other routes.
1 Introductory Lecture
As part of the BM327 Being a Biomolecular Scientist module (MyPlace link) we introduce the SIPBS internship matching process at an in-person session.
In AY2024-25 the introductory session will take place on Friday 18th October 2024, in SW105.
2 Project List and Application Form
Early in the academic year, scientists in SIPBS are asked if they would like to offer projects or placements in their groups for summer in the following year. These projects are collated on the Current Projects page.
After the introductory session, you will be invited to select up to three PIs, projects, or topics from this Current Projects list and to complete an Application Form for matching. This form will be made available after the session.
In AY2024-25 the deadline for submitting the application form will be Friday 29th November 2024.
Forms should be emailed to philip.brown@strath.ac.uk
3 Student Matching and Project Allocation
We operate a ranking process for applications. Applicants are ranked in order by second-year credit-weighted average (%CWA). The highest-ranked students, usually about 8-10, are allocated to projects and supervisors on the basis of student preference.
Other criteria are applied for third-year direct entrants. A proportion of places are reserved to accommodate these students.
Applicants may be excluded from consideration on the basis of January examination results (e.g. a failing mark).
In AY2024-25, we expect matching of students to supervisors and projects to be complete by December 2024 - January 2025.
4 Student-Supervisor Meeting
In order to be in time for internship and placement funding opportunity deadlines, we ask students and supervisors to meet early in the new year to discuss the project and plan out how to seek funding. In AY2023-24, we expect these meetings to take place in January-February 2025.
Arranging this meeting is the responsibility of the student and the supervisor. Successful applicants should be sure to contact their supervisor as early as practicable.
5 Funding Applications
There are several opportunities available for internship funding, and their deadlines for application typically fall in Semester 2. Please be sure to check the details of individual funding schemes for deadlines and any other requirements.
Funding applications are the responsibility of the student and the supervisor.
6 Project Start Dates
Summer placement projects typically begin after the Formal Assessment Period (i.e. Summer Exams), but timing is flexible and to be agreed between supervisor and student.
Funding timings should be agreed between the student and the supervisor.