Emerging Pathogens Institute
Become an EPI Ambassador!
Applications are currently closed. Please check back on this page during the spring semester for the next application cycle.
The Emerging Pathogens Institute selects up to 10 undergraduate students for each program. Students must have demonstrated outstanding achievement in academics, research and student leadership. Program members will serve as trainees, engage in outreach and directly enhance the student research experience at the EPI.
EPI Ambassadors will volunteer and promote the EPI at a wide variety of events at EPI, such as EPI Research Day, and around campus. In return, students will obtain valuable mentorship in coursework, independent research, professional development and written proposals.
EPI Ambassadors will be expected to attend EPI seminars and meet monthly with a cohort of EPI faculty mentors. At the end of the year, ambassadors will participate in a full 2-day training symposium, where an internationally recognized senior researcher will provide a one-on-one immersive experience to review oral presentations and discuss topics with ambassadors, such as data management and acquisition, proposal development and other career development strategies.
Ambassador Qualifications
- Be otherwise eligible by NIH rules for a Ruth L. Kirschstein Undergraduate NRSA Institutional Research Training Grant (e.g., U.S. citizen or permanent resident appointed to the MARC U-STAR training program).
- Be engaged/enrolled in a program relevant to pathogenic research.
Stipend Incentive
As an incentive, each ambassador will receive an annual $1,500 stipend, which can cover professional memberships or other training-related expenses, such as travel to scientific meetings.
Application Process
Every spring, the EPI will select new students to fill open spots within the ambassador program. Starting in 2026, interested students can expect ambassador applications to open in March and close in April. Each applicant must provide a cover letter, three recommendations and a completed NIH fellowship biosketch.