The Latham Science Engagement Fellowship Program was established through the generous donation of Drs. Robert J. and Sue B. Latham, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The program is based in the University of Iowa College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) and is administered by the Iowa Sciences Academy. The program is designed to enhance research opportunities and strengthen science outreach communication skills for selected undergraduate students.
Students selected for the Latham Fellows program will complete 2 courses ( 2 s.h. each - LATH:3000 in the Fall and LATH:3001 in the Spring), design and implement outreach projects, and participate in a year-end event that will highlight their achievements. At the completion of the program, students will receive a $1,000 fellowship stipend. Students may also have access to funding for summer research.
For 2025-2026, the Latham classes meet each semester from 9:30 - 10:20 AM, Tuesday and Thursday. It is required to meet in person. During the spring semester, the course meets as a class on Tuesdays only and Thursday are work days.
More information about the program can be found under student benefits. You can also check out the Latham Project Archive, our digital journal called Synthesis, as well as Stem-o-sphere, a blog that is managed by Latham Fellows to read about current and past projects.
The Lathams hope their gift helps position students of high scientific and creative ability for significant graduate work.
“If our gift attracts and keeps talented undergraduates in the sciences, provides them with strong support systems and research opportunities, and prepares them for placement in the best graduate programs worldwide, we will be very pleased,”
- Dr. Latham
What is public engagement and why is it important?
Science is prevalent in all facets of life. Through engagement, scientists and the public participate in discussions about the benefits and risks of the science and technology impacting our daily lives in order to address societal challenges (from AAAS, https://www.aaas.org/programs/center-public-engagement-science-and-technology).
Application
In this application, students should be prepared to:
- Answer two short essay questions on why they want to join the program (questions in application)
- Attach a resume/CV