LINCS Scholars Program

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The LINCS (Living and Learning in an Interdisciplinary Networked Community of STEM Scholars) Program was launched at Spelman College in Fall 2015. Formerly known as a Living and Learning Community (L2C) for Biomedical Scholars, the LINCS Scholars Program was designed to prepare women of African descent for careers in the biomedical sciences by creating cohorts of STEM scholars with strong and lasting bonds who would move together up the academic and career ladder.

Who Are LINCS Scholars?

LINCS Scholars are two-year cohorts of women scientists at Spelman College who aspire to become STEM leaders who can contribute dynamic science and perspective to a growing STEM field. Most of our LINCS Scholars reside in Laura Spelman Residence Hall, a social justice dorm on Spelman’s campus.

As we emerge from the global COVID-19 pandemic, the LINCS program seeks to re-engage our scholars and renew the community bonds to ensure that they can achieve their STEM career goals together. This past academic year, we welcomed our fifth cohort of LINCS Scholars. The LINCS Scholars Program at Spelman is led and directed by Dr. Kimberly Jackson, chair of Chemistry and Biochemistry, associate professor, and co-director of the Food Studies Program and Dr. Mentewab Ayalew, associate professor of Biology.

Eligibility Criteria
How to Apply
  • An overall GPA of 3.4 or higher.
  • Rising sophomore to junior-level students are eligible to apply.
  • Committed to pursuing a Ph.D. degree in a STEM discipline or a combined MD/PhD degree
  • Additional consideration is given to applicants with documented/anticipated research and leadership experience.

The LINCS Scholars Program is currently accepting applications for its fourth cohort of LINCS Scholars. The application deadline is Monday, February 13, 2023 @ 11:59 PM EST.

To apply for the LINCS Scholars Program, you must complete the LINCS Scholars Program Application before the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the LINCS Scholars at Spelman?

LINCS Scholars are two-year cohorts of women scientists at Spelman College who have committed to pursuing a PhD degree in a STEM discipline or a combined MD/PhD. Our scholars aspire to become leaders in STEM who contribute to dynamic science through a social justice lens.

Why is social justice an important component of the LINCS Scholars Program?

As a Black woman scientist in STEM, there are many social justice challenges you may face. By incorporating social justice into the LINCS Program, our scholars learn to be intentional about their science, develop a strong sense of identity, and cultivate strong social networks, among other things, that advance equity in STEM.

When are LINCS Scholars selected?

The next cohort of LINCS Scholars (2025-2027) will be selected in Spring 2025. Be sure to check our website for more information about the application periodically.

When should I begin preparing my application to become a LINCS Scholar?

You should begin preparing your application at the beginning of the semester you plan to apply.

How long is the commitment to being a LINCS Scholar?

LINCS Scholars cohorts are a two-year commitment.

Who should I contact if I have additional questions about the LINCS Scholars Program?

If you have additional questions about the LINCS Scholars Program, please contact
Co-Director, Dr. Kimberly Jackson, at kjackson@spelman.edu or 404-270-5792.