Microgrants Available for Science Policy and Communication

Do you know any graduate students or postdocs passionate about science policy and communication? Research!America recently launched its 2024 summer cycle of the Civic Engagement Microgrant Program, which provides funding of up to $3,000 for student- and postdoc-led civic engagement projects. 

The Research!America Civic Engagement Microgrant Program, generously supported by the Sloan Foundation, provides support for groups led by STEM graduate students, professional students (medical, dental, nursing, pharmacy, etc.), and postdocs to create projects aimed at building dialogue with public officials, community leaders, and local community members around issues of common interest. 

We are seeking applications from groups of graduate students and post-docs for grants to support a wide range of civic engagement activities, including startup funding for new science policy groups, STEM-related events in local communities, and digital media projects. Past grantees have developed initiatives such as podcast series, poster sessions with city council members, K-12 STEM projects, professional development workshops, and much more.

Benefits of participation:

  • Gain experience in science communication, science policy, public engagement.
  • Build skills in program management, grant-writing, and more.
  • Mentoring and workshops from Research!America staff.
  • Connect with program participants from around the country.

We hope you will circulate this opportunity among your graduate students, professional students, and postdocs. The application deadline is April 30, 2024.

For more details, visit our information page.  Please send questions to microgrants@researchamerica.org

Summer Program in Computational Psychiatry Education (SPICE) 

The Summer Program in Computational Psychiatry Education (SPICE) allows high-school and college students aged 16 and up to work alongside computational psychiatry researchers at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, assisting in cutting-edge basic neuroscientific and psychiatric research.

Application deadline is April 1, 2024.: https://bit.ly/SPICEApp2024

Meyer Cancer Center & Englander Institute for Precision Medicine Summer 2024 Internship Program Announcement!

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our Summer 2024 Internship Program. This unique opportunity is designed for passionate and enthusiastic students eager to delve into the realms of cancer research, precision medicine, and beyond.

Internship Highlights:

  • Focus Areas: High-impact cancer research, therapies, genomics, epidemiology, health disparities, and more.
  • Duration: 6 weeks, starting Tuesday, June 25th.
  • Format: Hybrid, with 1-2 days per week on our Upper East Side campus.

Who Can Apply?

  • High school students
  • Undergraduates

Why Join Us?

This internship is not just a program; it’s an opportunity to gain invaluable hands-on experience, contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in cancer biology, and expand your knowledge in various STEM fields.

Application Process: Ready to take the first step towards an exciting summer of learning and discovery? Apply now through the link below:

Apply Here

Application Deadline: Friday, March 15, at 5 PM EST

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to make a difference in the world of cancer research and precision medicine. Apply today!

Use Your Summer Wisely!

By: Dr. Lynne Holden, MD

In order to reach my goal of becoming a doctor, I attended five summer pathway programs starting the summer of 11th grade throughout college. I spent time in New Orleans, New York, Boston, Bethesda and Pittsburgh at no cost. I made lifelong friends who are now leaders throughout the country. I learned about subjects covered in medical school and on the medical college admissions test (MCAT). Most importantly, I gained valuable experience in research and clinical shadowing. In fact, I met one of my mentors, Dr. Deborah Prothrow- Stith the summer of 1983. I was assigned to shadow her in a Boston Clinic. Fast forward, she is a Professor of Medicine and the founding dean of Charles R. Drew School of Medicine and Science in Los Angeles, California! What an accomplishment!

Avoid the brain drain that occurs during the summer! I encourage each of you to explore summer programs to expand your network and to gain valuable medically-related experience such as research and shadowing. Oftentimes, the programs are available at low cost, free or may pay you a stipend. You may be provided with transportation, housing and meals.

The application deadlines are usually in mid-February so check the links from the Association of American Medical Colleges below today! For more information, please review the following carefully,

https://students-residents.aamc.org/applying-medical-school/plan-make-most-your-summer-now

Dr. Deborah Prothrow-Stith

Professor, Internal Medicine

Founding Dean, Charles R. Drew School of Medicine and Science

Los Angeles, CA

Interview: A Rising Star in Medicine and Science

In a recent interview, we had the privilege to speak with Grafira Jean Baptiste, a dedicated student from our Mentoring in Medicine Summer of Science Service and Scholarship Program. Grafira’s journey is nothing short of inspiring, and her commitment to her academic and personal goals is truly remarkable.

Hello, my name is Graphira Jean-Baptiste. I am currently a post-baccalaureate student applying to get a masters in biochemistry to get a better understanding of the inner mechanisms of the human body. My ultimate goal is to use my knowledge in biochemistry to become a pediatrician, one whose focus is on health disparities in minority communities, especially Haitian communities

Introduction

Daniel: Good afternoon, everyone. I’m Daniel, and today we’re shining a spotlight on one of our star students, Grafira Jean Baptiste. Grafira, could you start by telling us about your family background and upbringing?

Grafira: Of course, Daniel. I come from a humble background. My parents are immigrants from Haiti, and we initially lived in a two-bedroom apartment. My parents worked tirelessly to provide us with the best opportunities, even taking out loans and seeking help from friends to buy a house when I was nine.

Values: Hard Work and Education

Grafira: I learned the importance of hard work and education from my parents. They stressed that these values are key to success. Even when our family grew, my parents never wavered in their commitment to our education. This foundation has shaped my perspective on life.

Academic Interests

Daniel: Grafira, what are your academic interests, and why did you choose them?

Grafira: I’ve always loved science, and I developed a passion for chemistry and biochemistry. I’m particularly intrigued by how chemicals interact in our bodies and how diseases manifest. My interest in medicine was sparked during a program in Manhattan that focused on health disparities. I’m motivated to address these disparities, especially within the Haitian community.

Hobbies

Daniel: Aside from your academic pursuits, do you have any hobbies or interests?

Grafira: Absolutely. I’m an artist, and I love to paint and draw. Art is my sanctuary, a place of peace and inspiration.

Long-Term Goals

Daniel: What are your long-term goals, Grafira?

Grafira: My primary goal is to become a pediatrician. I’m passionate about working with children, and I want to make a difference in their lives. I also aim to address healthcare disparities, both within the Haitian community in the U.S. and in Haiti itself.

Highlights of the Summer of Science Program

Daniel: Can you share some highlights of your experience in the Summer of Science Program?

Grafira: One highlight was learning about anemia, which expanded my knowledge. I also gained valuable skills, like using Scratch for animation, creating a research poster, and mastering pivot tables.

Contributions to Personal and Academic Growth

Daniel: How has this program contributed to your personal and academic growth?

Grafira: I learned to take initiative, overcome fear, and become more organized. These skills have shaped my academic journey and will serve me well in the future.

Skills and Knowledge Gained

Daniel: What specific skills or knowledge areas do you believe will set you apart from other applicants?

Grafira: My graphic design skills, pivot table proficiency, and animation skills using Scratch are unique and will make me stand out. I’m also working on a research paper, which will further demonstrate my dedication.

Application of Program Experience

Daniel: How do you see the skills gained in this program contributing to your long-term goals?

Grafira: Graphic design will help me advertise my projects effectively. Pivot tables and data analysis will be invaluable in research and patient care. Animation skills will allow me to convey messages in a fun and engaging way.

Advice for Future Participants

Daniel: What advice would you give to students looking to join the Summer of Science Program?

Grafira: Keep an open mind, don’t be afraid to speak up, and take initiative. Embrace the learning process, and remember that every journey begins with a single step.

Parting Words

Daniel: Thank you so much, Grafira, for sharing your remarkable journey with us. Your determination and passion are truly inspiring.

Grafira: Thank you for the opportunity. I’m always ready to share my experiences and insights.