Call for Applications BRIT's 2012 Ian Leese Fellowship in Horticulture Award

2012 Fellowship provides funds for US graduate or undergraduate student majoring in botany or horticulture to intern with scientists at the renowned Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, UK

FORT WORTH, Texas (December 13, 2012) – The Botanical Research Institute of Texas announced today that it is currently accepting applications for its 2012 Ian Leese Fellowship in Horticulture award, which recognizes and advances excellence in horticulture.  The Fellowship is presented annually to a US citizen who is a graduate or undergraduate student in good standing majoring in botany or horticulture. Post-doctoral candidates and faculty between appointments will also be considered.

Award recipients will intern at the renowned Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, Surrey, UK for a three-month period (July – September).  The UK-based internship provides an invaluable opportunity for recipients to gain practical horticultural work experience and make new global connections.

In its second year, the Ian Leese Fellowship honors BRIT’s botanical heritage while furthering the educational goals and professional development of achieving students.  BRIT and Kew seek to increase the ranks of inspired horticulturists that will help sort out and manage the world’s environmental challenges.

The recipient receives a one-time stipend of $5,000 (USD) for the three-month period for the purpose of defraying local housing and other miscellaneous living expenses and travel to and from Kew. 

Applications are made by completing Kew's Horticultural Internship Application and printing the completed document.  Additional supporting information, including, resume should be attached to the application form.  Completed applications should be addressed to the Botanical Research Institute of Texas, 1700 University Drive, Fort Worth, Texas 76107-3400, attention Dr. S. H. Sohmer.

Applications for the 2012 Ian Leese Fellowship in Horticulture must be received by BRIT by US mail no later than March 15, 2012. The award will be announced on April 15, 2012.

The award recipient will have a valid US passport and will be required to make all arrangements for a student visa or his/her right-to-work permit in the UK. The award recipient may apply with BUNAC for its overseas work program and sponsorship.  The Royal Botanic Garden, Kew, is not able to sponsor the applicant for visa purposes.

At Kew registration, the recipient will be required to produce original documentation to confirm eligibility.