What: The Jim Holland Summer Science Research Program (SSRP) is a one-week academic program designed to introduce high school students to scientific research. During the week of the program, you will be integrated into a research lab and execute a small research project (or component thereof) in collaboration with a faculty member and members of his/her lab. From this practical laboratory experience, you will gain insight into how and why scientific research is done. You will be required to document your experience and communicate your work in a poster session at the conclusion of the program.

You will contact your assigned mentor in advance to discuss possible research projects in the host lab. You should become familiar with your mentor’s research area by reviewing websites, journal articles, etc. You may be working alongside high school or college students (graduate and postdoctorate), technicians, high school teachers, and/or visiting professors. The ability to work at times with little supervision is a must. Mentors will guide the research project and the SSRP director will make daily visits to address any questions or concerns.

Labs will vary in their expectations and requirements. Each participant will receive a general introduction; tour; training in any necessary techniques, procedures, and operation of equipment; and expectations about working hours, lab etiquette, and meetings. As part of the research process, participants may be required to conduct many repetitive procedures and should expect to return to the lab in the evenings. You will be expected to work with your mentor to complete the research and prepare for your presentation while respecting issues of confidentiality, rigor, and time for careful review.

Who: Underrepresented high school students in the 9th, 10th, and 11th grades (entering 10th, 11th, and 12th grades in the fall) who have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.2 (non-weighted), are taking/have taken science and math courses, and are interested in a science career.

When: July 7-14, 2024

Where: Indiana University at Bloomington. Participants will be housed in a dormitory on the beautiful Bloomington campus.

Application deadline: Closed. Applications for the 2025 programs will be accepted beginning in January 2025. Please check back then.

How to apply: A complete application includes student application, parent/guardian acknowledgment, verified courses/grades from counselor, recommendation from science teacher, and recommendation from math teacher.

Cost: All ACCEPTED applicants will be charged a $75, NON-REFUNDABLE registration fee.

Notification: Applicants will be notified of acceptance during the week of April 22-26, 2024. Alternates will be notified by May 13, 2024.

Confirmation/registration: You must have received notification of acceptance into the Jim Holland Summer Science Research Program (SSRP) in order to register. Registration fees are due by June 30, 2024.