Maria L. Caleel, a Brown University Class of 1987 graduate, tragically passed away while pursuing a career in veterinary equine medicine. She was an accomplished equestrian and was ranked at the top of her class at the University of Illinois' College of Veterinary Medicine. This fellowship honors her passion for research, academic excellence, and commitment to discovery.

The Maria L. Caleel Fellowship supports seniors and rising seniors in the Program in Biology who plan to conduct summer research as the foundation for their honors thesis. Fellows receive a competitive stipend, additional funding for research expenses, and professional development opportunities. 

Funding & Support

• $3,500 summer stipend
• $1,000 research stipend (usable throughout the fellowship period)
• Department Summer Earnings Waiver (DSEW) for qualifying students
   

How to Apply

Deadline: Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Submit your application via UFunds, including:
A Two-Page Letter (Signed by Both Student & Mentor) that will be evaluated by this rubric.
This letter should demonstrate a well-developed research plan and a strong mentoring relationship. The content should be divided as follows:

Eligibility

• Open to seniors and rising seniors in any BioMed Concentration.
• Applicants must be enrolled in both Spring 2026 and Fall 2026 semesters. This funding may occur in the summer between a student’s junior and senior years (Class of ‘27) or the summer before a December competition (Class of ‘26.5).
• Students studying abroad in Spring 2026 can apply but should contact Michelle_Leiber@brown.edu for access to the application.

Not eligible: Graduating seniors, graduate students, or students on a leave of absence.

Fellow Expectations and restrictions

• Full-time commitment of at least 10 weeks during summer 2026.
• Cannot be combined with other Brown University funded fellowship or award.
• Cannot have any other external fellowship or internship during the summer research commitment.
• Students must file an I-9 with Brown HR to receive the stipend.

Before finals week of their last semester, fellows must submit:

• A final thesis and thesis presentation.
• Additional scholarly outputs (e.g., conference presentations, publications).
• Photos documenting research or presentations.
• A 1-page reflection on the experience.
• Future contact information for potential follow-up on the fellowship’s impact.