Summer Scholars Program in Biology and Biomedical Research

For up to 20 students who will be freshmen in the fall, a special laboratory experience, the Summer Scholars Program in Biology and Biomedical Research, offers an extraordinary opportunity to get a head start on scientific research and their college careers. Students in the seven-week program have one thing in common: a desire to learn and to leave their mark on the scientific world.

The program is designed to meet the needs of interested students from a variety of backgrounds, providing accessible, yet challenging research opportunities. Among the program's applicants have been high-school students whose transcripts have included advanced-placement science courses and those whose scientific interests have brought them science club achievements, experience in hospital labs, and science fair ribbons, awards, or recognition, although prior research experience is not a requirement. Many participants aspire to careers in biology, medical research, or biomedical engineering.

Also known as the "Prefreshmen Summer Scholars" program because it is undertaken prior to the freshman year, the intensive program helps students make the transition to active learning. Up to 20 students are selected based on their academic background, interest in scientific research, an essay, and teachers recommendations. In the first week, Summer Scholars work together in the lab to master selected basic research skills, including techniques used in molecular biology. For the following six weeks, they work in a research lab to apply these tools to research problems.

The summer program also includes an introduction to campus resources such as libraries and computers, a seminar series, and academic advising. Participants can meet with advisors and register for fall classes while on campus during the summer. The Scholars are housed together in a residence hall on campus. Weekend activities introduce them to St. Louis area attractions ranging from the Missouri Botanical Garden to a float trip on the Meramec River.

Eligibility:
Participation in the Summer Scholars Program in Biology and Biomedical Research is limited to students who will enter Washington University as full-time freshmen the following fall. Students must submit a freshman application to Washington University and indicate an interest in one of the sciences offered by the College of Arts and Sciences, or in Biomedical Engineering or Biological and Engineering Sciences through the School of Engineering and Applied Science.

Deadline:
The deadline for applying to the summer program is January 15 of the applicant's senior year of high school. The application includes an essay describing the student's interest and activities in science, a letter of recommendation from a science teacher, and a high-school transcript. Application materials should be sent to the address below.

Scholars are expected to exhibit a keen interest in scientific research, as demonstrated by their high-school program and/or extracurricular activities. They generally show strong academic performance and promise. Women and minority students are particularly encouraged to apply.

Biology Summer Scholars Program
Washington University in St. Louis

Campus Box 1089

One Brookings Drive

St. Louis, MO 63130-4899

Financing:
Summer Scholars’ travel expenses within the U.S., living expenses, and transportation and fees for all program activities for their on-campus stay are covered by funds provided by a grant from the Undergraduate Biological Sciences Education Program of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the College of Arts and Sciences. Participants will need to bring some funds for incidentals, such as laundry and personal purchases.

Summer 2008 Program Dates: Tuesday, June 10 - Saturday, July 26

Contact: Amy O'Brien
Department of Biology-Science Outreach
314-935-7170
Email: obrien@biology2.wustl.edu

Residential Advisor for Summer Scholars:
The RA information and application are available below as a download.
If you have any questions, or need additional information, contact Amy O'Brien.

Applications and Additional Information:

Mentors: TBA

Research Abstracts of Past Summer Scholars: