Catalyst Scholars Program

Hand pouring liquid from a bottle into another container.

Catalyst Scholars Program

The Catalyst Scholars Program is a selective opportunity for admitted students in chemistry and biochemistry at Providence College. Designed for students seeking the depth, mentorship, and research engagement characteristic of liberal arts colleges, this program brings together exceptional students and faculty to address some of the world’s most pressing problems. Through early and sustained research involvement, individualized advising, and intentional preparation for life after Providence College, Catalyst Scholars develop the skills and readiness needed to compete for top graduate school placement, industrial research positions, and allied scientific careers of all types.

Students working in fume hoods.
Shelf full of bottles labeled with various chemicals.
Students standing by a poster presentation.

Students selected as Catalyst Scholars will receive:

  • Guaranteed 8-10 week paid summer research experience (including subsidized housing) with a faculty mentor
  • One-on-one advising with a faculty member
  • Peer mentoring and alumni networking/shadowing
  • Access to an accelerated curriculum with a high score on the AP exam
  • Consideration for major-specific scholarships and financial aid for chemistry & biochemistry majors

Selection to this program is by application each year after admissions invitations have been released by the PC Office of Admission. An email inviting you to submit a short application will be sent to all admitted students. For questions about the program, please contact Seann Mulcahy, Department Chair, at smulcahy@providence.edu.

Major-specific scholarships and financial aid come from the following endowed sources:

Professor E.R. Boyko Scholarship Fund – merit-based scholarships for chemistry and biochemistry majors

Robert H. Walsh Scholarship Fund – need-based financial aid for chemistry majors

Whitcome Family Scholarship Fund – need-based financial aid for STEM majors

The Carl D. Baer Endowed Scholarship – need-based financial aid for chemistry and biochemistry majors

Dr. Seann Mulcahy

Professor of Chemistry / Department Chair
SCI 104
(401) 865-1280
smulcahy@providence.edu