USU’s biotech program has summer academy

 An intensive and exciting learning experience awaits talented high school students in summer 2009 at Utah State University’s Biotech Summer Academy. USU is recruiting high school students to work with faculty mentors who are conducting biotechnology research.
                Biotech Summer Academy is a five-day program for high school soon-to-be juniors and seniors interested in biotechnology, including science, medicine and engineering. An advanced program is available for returning students. Biotech Summer Academy 2009 takes place Monday, July 6–Friday, July 10.
                Students paired with mentors explore genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, food and nutrition sciences, biological and environmental engineering, plant and soil science, animal, dairy and veterinary sciences, stem cell research, cloning and nuclear transfer techniques, giving them hands-on experience using professional equipment and methodologies.
                Now in its ninth year, Biotech Summer Academy has challenged students to prepare for their future. Information on scholarships available to incoming biotechnology students is available.
                Nearly half the students who completed USU’s summer academy program and went on to attend Utah State University were awarded scholarships.
                “This is a wonderful opportunity to experience biotechnological research at the university level and experience the college environment,” said Afifa Sabir, education coordinator and program director. “The academy offers an exciting glimpse of the many research and career opportunities available in biotechnology.”
                The program is sponsored by a grant from Utah Applied Science, Technology and Engineering Camps (ASTEC) in association with the science advisor in the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development, which promotes science programs in the state.
                Biotech Summer Academy is open to students entering their junior year or above. Participants are selected based on a written statement of interest along with their GPA and grade level. Cost is $100, including room and board, along with materials and evening recreation. Deadline for applications is June 1, 2009.
                Applications are available online at www.biosystems.usu.edu/. Once at the Web site, click on the education tab and proceed to the high school section, or contact Ken Olsen, ken.olsen@usu.edu at 435-797-3504.
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