The Young Scientist Program (YSP): Summer Focus

The Young Scientist Program aims to attract students to scientific careers and increase the participation of historically-excluded groups in science by bringing resources and scientists directly to teachers and students in the St. Louis area. Since 1991, the Summer Focus program has provided highly-motivated high school students from the Greater St. Louis area with funded eight-week summer research internships at the Washington University in St. Louis. Summer Focus is an 8-week paid summer research internship opportunity. Students are paired with a scientist from WashU with whom they will conduct an independent research project as well as participate in courses on science communication and college/career prep. Each Summer Focus Scholar is paired with two scientists: a Mentor and a Tutor. The Mentor works one-on-one with the Scholar on a specific project in the laboratory, while the Tutor supports the Scholar throughout their research experience. Scholars also take two courses on strengthening their science communication skills and preparing to apply to colleges. Motivated rising high school seniors from the St. Louis area who are interested in biomedical science are encouraged to apply. No research experience is necessary.