Who do I contact for questions about the Biotechnology Research Fellowship Program (BRFP)?

The best way to communicate with our program staff is through email at brfp@caldwell.edu

What are the dates of the 2026 program?

Virtual program: July 27-July 30, Monday to Thursday 6pm-8pm.

On-campus program: August 3–14, Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4 pm.

No early arrival or late pickups are permitted. Fellows must commit to attending every day of the program.

What is the program fee for BRFP?

If you submit payment in full by April 27, the early bird fee is $1,800. After that, the fee is $2,300. We encourage you to finalize payment by April 27 to take advantage of the early bird pricing.

What is your credit/refund policy? 

Parents/caregivers must request a refund, via email 10 business days prior to the beginning of the program. You will then receive a form to complete. Once complete, a refund can be expected 2 weeks from the submission of your refund form.

What do I need to do to prepare? 

Before your Fellow’s first day, please register and submit all required forms, which will be emailed to you upon acceptance to the program. Fellows cannot attend BRFP unless these important documents are forwarded to the University. 

Where does BRFP take place?

The first week of the program is virtual. For the on-campus weeks, all activities except for one field trip will take place at Caldwell University at 120 Bloomfield Avenue in Caldwell, New Jersey. Fellows will primarily work at Raymond Hall, our science building. Fellows are not permitted to leave campus during the hours of the program (8:30am to 4:00pm).

Is there a required dress code for students?

Since Fellows will be working in a lab and safety is our priority, they must wear comfortable attire with closed-toe shoes. Hair must be tied back. Fellows should expect to wear lab coats and safety glasses when in the lab. Bring a sweater or sweatshirt as the labs are climate controlled and can be chilly.

What does drop off and pick up look like?

Fellows must arrange their own transportation daily to and from Caldwell University. There is free parking available on campus, not far from Raymond Hall. Please see our campus map for the location of Raymond Hall (number 8 on the map) and parking. Every day, Fellows will check in with staff at Newman Plaza (number 10 on the map), a short walk to Raymond Hall. At the end of the day, Fellows will be released to their parents from Newman Plaza. 

Is lunch provided?

Fellows must provide their own bagged lunch. There is a Starbucks on campus. Lunch will be provided on the last day of the session to celebrate your achievements.

Will Fellows go on field trips?

Yes, one field trip will be planned for Friday August 7th. Fellows will be transported to this location by private charter bus and will be supervised by Caldwell University summer staff. 

What does a typical day look like?

8:30am Check In and prep for the day

8:45am-9:30am Special sessions with speakers

9:45am-12:30pm Research

12:30pm-1:15pm Lunch

1:15pm-4:00pm Research

4:00pm Check out

What are the special sessions?

Fellows will meet with Admissions staff to learn more about the college application process. They will also meet with staff from the Academic Success Center on topics like STEM study skills and time management, all of which are important in becoming a successful STEM major. We also plan for additional speakers, details to follow. 

What happens after the August program is over?

• Fellows will be invited to become NJAS Ambassadors during the school year, helping at events and programs including the NJAS Annual Meeting.

• Fellows are expected to present their research at the 72nd NJAS Annual Meeting In April 2027.

• BRFP will host an event in the Fall at Caldwell University

• Fellows are encouraged to return every year they are eligible to participate.

What is Caldwell’s criteria for hiring academy staff and what kind of training do they receive?

Caldwell recruits mature and capable staff to work in our programs. Our staff are either University faculty or undergraduate students at Caldwell University.  All staff members attend a mandatory and comprehensive pre-camp training program that covers CPR/First Aid, Risk Management, Positive Youth Development Principles, Caldwell Academy Standards, Social Emotional Learning and Inclusion Practices.

How safe is Caldwell Summer Academy? 

At Caldwell Summer Academy, safety is a top priority. The University ensures a secure environment for all students by providing 24/7 security personnel who patrol the campus both on foot and by vehicle. This round-the-clock presence is integral to the campus culture, offering peace of mind to students, staff, and families alike. The security team is made up of highly experienced retired law enforcement officers, many of whom have established strong working relationships with the Caldwell Township Police Department. Their professionalism and commitment to safety reflect Caldwell University’s dedication to fostering a secure and supportive learning environment. 

How do you accommodate children with food allergies or other health concerns? During the registration process, it is extremely important that families notify the camp if the child has any medical conditions such as, but not limited to, allergies, asthma, diabetes or other conditions.

What if my child gets injured? 

If a child is injured, staff certified in CPR/First Aid and all other camp staff will take whatever steps necessary to administer care and/or obtain emergency medical care. Parents/caregivers will be notified immediately.