PRINCETON -- Princeton University's president issued an open letter to Amazon's top two leaders, who are both Princeton alumni, asking them to consider New Jersey to build the company's coveted second headquarters.

Jeff Bezos, Amazon's founder and CEO, graduated from Princeton in 1986 with degrees in electrical engineering and computer science. He announced last month that the Seattle-based company was looking for a North American city to host a second, equal headquarters.

Eisgruber also addresses Jeff Wilke, the company's CEO of Worldwide Consumer, who graduated from Princeton in 1989 with a degree in chemical engineering.

In the letter, Eisgruber wrote that Princeton's student body could help fill the desire for the "excellent institutions of higher education" that Amazon is looking for near its second headquarters.

"Princeton University is increasingly engaging with corporate and other external partners throughout the state," Eisgruber wrote. "And we would welcome an exploration with Amazon of areas ranging from potential research collaborations and innovation initiatives, to possible internship or recruitment programs."

Earlier in the month, Gov. Chris Christie endorsed Newark as his top city for consideration, if Amazon were to choose New Jersey for their second headquarters.

Newark and the state would offer Amazon about $7 billion in potential tax incentives to build its second headquarters, if chosen.

Mercer County officials have also submitted proposals to host HQ2.

"I wanted to assure you that my colleagues and I are prepared to help in any way we can as you consider the many benefits that a location in New Jersey would provide," Eisgruber wrote.

Thursday is the last day Amazon will accept proposals from cities.

Paige Gross may be reached at pgross@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @By_paigegross. Find NJ.com on Facebook.