About: BioMed Focus Scholars spend 8 weeks in the laboratory under the direct mentorship of a well-suited Research Mentor (graduate student, postdoc, or laboratory staff). The lab mentor teaches lab techniques needed to complete the project and helps the Scholar understand the science behind the project goals. 

Expectations/Responsibilities: 

• Design a project appropriate for completion by a high school student within 8 weeks (think of this as a simplified rotation project)

• Work directly with the Scholar to learn lab skills, collect data, analyze data, and interpret data

• Help the Scholar find and comprehend scientific articles

• Review drafts of the Scholars' research paper and symposium presentation

• Ensure the Scholar understands the project well enough to write a research paper and present at the final symposium

• Have strong interpersonal skills, reliability, enthusiasm, and be committed to Scholar success

About: Before BioMed Focus Scholars begin in the lab, they learn some common research techniques and skills in a 2-day Research Techniques Short Course taking place on June 16 & 17.

Topics covered include: 

• Using a pipette

• Using a light microscope

• Measurement and scientific notation

• Preparing solutions 

• Sterile technique and bacterial culture

• Plasmid isolation and bacterial transformation

• Restriction digests and gel electrophoresis

• Intro to Bioinformatics

Course Volunteer: Help teach hands-on techniques for at least a half day during the boot camp.

Course Instructor: Organize and run the full lab skills course, teach techniques, lead and assist volunteers, manage and order reagents/materials. The Boot Camp Manual from 2024 will be provided and updated as needed.

About: As Program Director, you will organize and direct all aspects of BioMed Focus. This position has a two-year commitment. Graduate students and Postdocs can serve as Program Director.

Some important activities are highlighted:

• Coordinate with local high schools to hold information sessions

• Review program applications, conduct interviews, and select a cohort

• Connect with sponsors and donors to maintain program funding

• Lead a group of 40+ volunteers and facilitate volunteer onboarding and training

• Hold symposium practices and organize the final research symposium

• Share program updates with the university and program sponsors/donors

About: Student Advisors help select a program cohort and ensure Scholar success in the program. Graduate students and Postdocs can be Student Advisors.

Major roles include:

• Attend information sessions at local high schools to engage with interested program participants

• Help review program applications, conduct interviews, and select a cohort

• Acquire and maintain Scholar information required for onboarding

• Hold check-in meetings with Scholars throughout the summer

• Help with symposium practices and the final research symposium

About: This is a weekly course designed to teach Scholars how to effectively communicate their research. The course will be led by two Instructors. Postdocs and Graduate students can volunteer as Science Communication Course Instructors.

Topics covered include:

• Primary scientific literature

• The components/sections of research papers

• Drafting a research paper

• Peer review and constructive scientific critique

• Informal scientific presentations (chalk talks)

• Formal presentations (PowerPoint)

Course Instructors will present one of the suggested topics in a 1.5 hour weekly classes. Instructors will also make sure homework assignments are completed, prepare students to give a presentation, and ensure the students adequately understand their projects. PowerPoint presentations from the 2024 course can be provided as a reference.

About: This is a weekly course designed to prepare Scholars for the college search, application, and admission process. Each week, BioMed Focus Scholars will learn about a new topic. The Course will be led by 1-4 Instructors. Undergraduates, Grad students, Postdocs, and Lab Staff can volunteer as College Prep Course Instructors.

Topics covered include:

• Choosing the right college

• Applications

• Admission essays

• Resumes

• Letters of Recommendation

• Science Careers

Course Instructors will present one of the suggested topics in a 1-1.5 hour class. PowerPoint presentations from the 2024 course can be provided as a reference.