USU center to have biotechnology summer school

Forty-three high school students from across Utah will be on the Utah State University campus July 9-13 participating in the Center for Integrated BioSystem’s Biotechnology Summer Academy. The program is supported, in part, by a grant from the Utah Science Advisor in the Governor’s Office of Economic Development.

For the past six years, the Center for Integrated BioSystems at Utah State has run a week-long Biotechnology Summer Academy, a summer camp for high school students that focuses on fostering positive interactions between students and faculty via biotechnology experiential learning. The support from the Governor’s Office of Economic Development for this year’s academy helps ensure that high school students can continue to participate in the program that has inspired more than 85 students to pursue bachelor’s degrees at USU.

Biotechnology Summer Academy immerses students in biotechnology research projects through mentorships with world-renowned scientists at USU. Students acquire 21st century science skills in fields such as genetic engineering and bioinformatics as they pursue a biotechnology research project in the lab of a USU scientist. At the close of the week, each student will have the spotlight as they present their research results at a symposium attended by participating students, science mentors, parents and USU administrators. The symposium recognizes these young scientists for their efforts, talent and desire to explore the world around them. The top three students receive awards for their efforts.

The funding from the Science Advisor in the Governor’s Office of Economic Development is helping the Center for Integrated BioSystems at Utah State University to continue to build the state’s scientific resources for the future. The head start the Biotechnology Academy provides young scientists is invaluable in maintaining Utah’s competitive edge in biotechnology and life sciences.