Mason’s Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program

Once again, the George Mason University Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP) is seeking high school students with a passion for science and a desire to gain practical scientific experience during the summer of 2013. 

In addition to gaining hands-on lab experience, participants have the opportunity to work alongside scientists trying to solve some of the most vexing problems in genomics, medicine, neuroscience, biodefense, bioinformatics, and bioengineering. As a bonus, many students have the opportunity to see their names included in articles published in scientific journals or their work presented at prestigious scientific conferences.

Over 150 students have participated in ASSIP since 2007. Last year, 35 high school students from 13 local high schools worked in 15 different areas of GMU, including the Center for Biodefense and Infectious Disease, the Krasnow Institute for Advanced Study, and the Volgenau School of Engineering. 

And they worked on some exciting projects including a study on the use of natural products for the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and the role of nonparticles in viral research.

ASSIP participants also explored a variety of career opportunities in the STEM fields and forged a strong network of professional contacts. 

“Working in my lab for the summer gives students hands-on experience, which is critical to fully understand biological research,” said Dr. Kylene Kehn-Hall, an ASSIP mentor in 2012.  “They have the opportunity to address a real life scientific question, not just one you would see in a laboratory class.”

Fifteen former ASSIP participants are co-authors on twelve journal articles, abstracts and book chapters published since 2011. Additionally, art work created by the 2011 Aspiring Scientists was displayed at the Science Museum of Virginia from May to August 2012.

Applicants must be 16 years old as of the first day of the program, which starts on June 20, 2013. Laboratories are located on GMU’s Prince William and Fairfax campuses, and students are responsible for their own housing and transportation. 

ASSIP is a highly competitive program. Science courses completed, cumulative GPA, volunteer/work experience, personal statements, and a letter of recommendation will be considered. Interviews will be scheduled for highly qualified candidates.

An application form is currently available on the ASSIP website and must be submitted no later than February 15, 2013, by 11:59 pm EST.

For more information as well as a list of mentors and departments participating in the 2013 program, visit the George Mason Website.