Bridge to Science Interns 2025 cohort

We’re thrilled to welcome the inaugural cohort of the Bridge to Science (BTS) Internship Program 2025 —a remarkable group of emerging scientists from across Latin America who are embarking on a journey of research, discovery, and impact.

Thanks to the Secretaría Nacional de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación (Senacyt) Academic Stays Program, we’re proud to host Panamanian undergraduate students completing their theses during a paid 9-month internship at STRI. Through the generous support of private philanthropy, we’re also welcoming talented undergraduates and recent graduates from across the region.

But this program is more than just research—it’s a community. Over a period of nine months, interns will engage in hands-on workshops in data analysis, scientific writing, and professional development, gaining essential skills to launch successful careers in STEM.

These students represent the next generation of tropical researchers in Latin America. We’re honored to support their growth and celebrate their curiosity, dedication, and drive.

Welcome to STRI. Welcome to the future of science.

Application Deadline  

March 22, 2025. Applicants will be notified of acceptance into the program approximately 4 weeks after the application deadline.

Description 

Through the SENACYT Academic stays Program, we are looking for undergraduate or master’s students who wish to complete their thesis during a paid 9-month internship at STRI.
Thanks to a generous donation, we are ALSO looking for undergraduates from universities in Latin America who have completed coursework or post baccalaureates (recent graduates) to conduct a paid 9-month internship at STRI.

Program Details

•  Duration: 9-month paid internship
•   Cohort Model: Includes a two-week orientation
•   Teaching Sessions during the Internship: Practical workshops will be organized to strengthen skills in research, data analysis, scientific writing, and professional development in the STEM field.
•   Program Dates: April to December 2025

Eligibility Criteria

For students applying to SENACYT Funding:

• Open to undergraduate or master’s students in fields such as biology, environmental sciences, or related disciplines from accredited Panamanian universities, with research areas aligned with those of STRI scientists.
• Applicants must have completed all coursework, with only the thesis or final graduation requirements pending (a certified letter from the university is required). The thesis will be conducted during the program.
• Full-time availability is mandatory.
• A minimum academic index of 1.5 is required.
• Basic English proficiency at A2 level or higher.

Important:  Students must submit a copy of their final thesis and the defense certificate issued by their university to STRI and SENACYT upon program completion.

For students or recent graduates applying to Private Funds:

• Open to undergraduate students who have completed coursework or recent graduates (post-baccalaureates) in fields such as biology, environmental sciences, or related disciplines, with research areas aligned with those of STRI scientists.
• Applicants must be currently enrolled in or have graduated within the past two years from an accredited university in Latin America (a certificate of enrollment or diploma is required).
• Full-time availability is mandatory.
• Applicants must provide either the minimum academic index required for successful graduation or an unofficial undergraduate transcript (with an explanation of the grading scheme for non-Panamanian universities).
• Basic English proficiency at A2 level or higher.

Award 

• Our program covers a stipend to cover living expenses during the stay at STRI (currently $1,250/month for up to 9 months).
• Airfare to Panama or ground transportation for those coming from other provinces of Panama to our stations.
• Medical or accident insurance in case the applicant does not have coverage.
• Registration fee.
• Teaching sessions with experts.