 Program Description
The Drexel University College of Medicine (Drexel Med) provides paid Summer Research Internships (HSSRI) to students from area high schools with an interest in biomedical research. The HSSRI program provides students with an opportunity to enhance their understanding of current biological/biomedical principles and their analytical/technical skills in a research environment.
Research interns are mentored by Drexel Med faculty, who work in various disciplines, including biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, neuroscience, microbiology, immunology, pathobiology, pharmacology and physiology. Drexel Med faculty and members of their laboratory guide students through the planning and practice of daily research experiments and activities. Each student is assigned to work in a specific laboratory for the duration of the program. Interns typically work on a unique project related to the research goals of that particular laboratory. Interns are integrated into the daily work of the laboratory, participating in laboratory meetings and gaining exposure to different facets of the laboratory's research. Mentors help students apply their current knowledge and skills and assist them in making the connection between laboratory experiences and their academic studies.
The HSSRI program requires participation in the orientation session, at least two lunchtime seminars presented by invited guests or scientists within the college, and an introduction to research-related library/online resources. Students may return to campus in October to present their research at Discovery 2008 – the annual research day of Drexel University College of Medicine.
2008 Program Schedule and Stipend
The 2008 internship is scheduled for June 16 – August 8. Students are expected to participate a minimum of 25 hours per week to a maximum of 40 hours per week. Although the schedule is flexible, students are required to complete the eight-week program and to participate in all program activities. Students will receive a $1,500 stipend for the full eight weeks.
Eligibility Requirements
Drexel Med is seeking highly motivated students who are at least sixteen years of age, enrolled in an academic curriculum and demonstrate interest in science-related fields of study. Once students are selected to participate in the program, they must obtain a work permit. The student's high school can assist in this process.
Health and Safety
As a matter of routine research practice, Drexel Med faculty often use equipment and biological/chemical substances that may pose certain risks to human health and safety. Drexel Med has designed the summer research program for high school students to comply with applicable federal and state regulations for the use of such equipment and substances by minors. However, since it is impossible to eliminate all of the risks inherent in biomedical research, parents of participating students will be required to sign a permission form which outlines Drexel Med's research activities and provides consent for their children's participation in these activities.
How to Apply
Interested students should download and complete the application. Applications should be submitted along with two letters of recommendation from teachers or other science-related professionals, and an official transcript. The deadline for submission is February 1, 2008.
 Tia Dorsey
Academic Coordinator
Office of Biomedical Graduate and Postgraduate Studies
2900 Queen Lane, Suite #239
Philadelphia, PA 19129
Phone (215) 991-8573
Fax (215) 843-5810
E-mail: tia.dorsey@drexelmed.edu
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