Excited about STEM? Ready to work on real research projects alongside top scientists?
Apply to the Biotechnology Research Fellow Program (BRFP) at Caldwell University — a transformative, hands-on research experience designed for high school students passionate about Cancer Biology, Neuroscience, and Developmental Biology!
This immersive two-week summer program connects talented students with cutting-edge research while building technical skills, teamwork, and scientific confidence — all critical for future success in biotech, medical, and STEM careers.
This collaborative initiative between the New Jersey Academy of Science (NJAS), Caldwell University, NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development - Industry Partnerships - Life Sciences, and Biotech Champions aims to expand access to biotechnology careers for high school students in New Jersey.
Work directly with university faculty and staff on groundbreaking scientific projects.
Master technical skills and gain real-world research experience.
Discover STEM career paths through professional workshops and instrumentation demos.
Network with guest speakers from leading BioPharma companies.
Build your resume for college and beyond!
Present your research at the 71st New Jersey Academy of Science (NJAS) Annual Meeting in May 2026.
Top presenters will qualify to attend the prestigious 2027 NAAS/AJAS and AAAS Annual Meeting, gaining national exposure!
Received a Certificate of Participation as Cohort 1 signed by all the program collaborators.
Dates: August 4–15, 2025
Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4 pm
Location: Caldwell University
Eligibility: Incoming high school Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors (Classes of 2026, 2027, 2028)
Program Fee: $1,800
Note: Students must arrange their own transportation.
Priority Deadline to Apply: Monday June 2, 2025. Applications accepted on a rolling basis until June 20, 2025.
Acceptances Announced: no later than Friday, June 27, 2025.
Registration and Deposit Deadline: Wednesday July 3, 2025 ($500 deposit due). Final Payment Due: Friday, July 25, 2025
Program Schedule:
Week 1: Exploring STEM Careers & Crafting Your Research Proposal
Hands-on lab activities and biotech career talks
Develop individual research proposals with mentorship from STEM professionals
Week 2: Bringing Your Research to Life!
Conduct experiments using molecular biology or microscopy techniques to find an answer to your question
Learn data analysis, troubleshooting techniques, and professional research presentation skills
Friday - Research Showcase (Last Day!) featuring feedback from scientists and industry leaders.
The Summer Research Fellow Program is a proud part of the Research First Initiative, a collaboration between Caldwell University and the New Jersey Academy of Science (NJAS). This program expands access to biotechnology careers, promotes diversity in STEM, and helps young scientists like YOU build confidence, skills, and a professional identity through real accomplishments!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do I contact for questions about the Biotechnology Research Fellow Program (BRFP)?
The best way to communicate with our program staff is through email at brfp@caldwell.edu.
What are the dates of the program?
August 4–15, 2025, 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?
The program fee is $1,800. A $500 deposit upon acceptance is due by Wednesday July 3, 2025. Final payment is due Friday, July 25, 2025.
How can I pay the deposit and/or program fee?
Use this secure site to pay by credit card.
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 submit 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?
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 must check in with staff in Raymond Hall Room 206 where their day will begin. Fellows must also check out with staff at the end of each day, also in Raymond Hall Room 206.
Is lunch provided?
Fellows must provide their own bagged lunch. There may be an option to purchase lunch at the campus cafeteria (details to follow). There is also 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 8. 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
8:30am-9:30am Special sessions with Admissions, Academic Success Center
9:30am Break
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. Fellows will also interact with some of our faculty in exercise science and nursing.
What happens after the August program is over?
All Fellows will be invited to a Life Sciences Career Panel at Caldwell University in Fall 2025 to network with scientists and doctors in various fields.
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 71st NJAS Annual Meeting In April 2026.
All Fellows interested in showcasing their research to our community, please contact us to add you as a speaker on our STEM outreach program that will take place over the weekend or afterschool.
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, the Nurse, 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.
Research Tracks
To make a deposit or balance payment, please click on this link https://payit.nelnet.net/form/IDEjFvqR
For questions and more information, please contact brfp@caldwell.edu