Program Dates (tentative):
June 23 - August 22, 2025

Application Opens: December 15, 2025

Application Deadline: February 21, 2025

Vision and Mission: Although community college students often possess remarkable skills and perform exceptionally well in their studies, they may face limitations when it comes to research experience, opportunities, and resources when transferring to a 4-year university. These disparities can make it harder for them to secure internships, win scholarships and awards, join research groups, or pursue graduate studies.

To address these academic difficulties, this summer research program is designed to support community college students in the Greater Seattle Area by providing them with hands-on laboratory experience, imparting foundational and advanced knowledge in chemistry, and equipping them with important scientific skills. The program also helps these students smoothly transition to a 4-year university. The goal of this program is to broaden students' understanding of STEM career paths and establish meaningful mentor-mentee relationships that will enhance their academic and professional development.

Program Details: The program for 2025 will run from Monday June 23th to Friday August 22nd (9 weeks). During this time, students will engage in practical scientific investigations, guided by a team of graduate student mentors. The program will take place at the University of Washington's chemistry laboratory, where participants will conduct experiments and receive training. To ensure a well-rounded experience, the program will include a mix of social activities, workshops, informational sessions, and symposiums (as outlined below). The program offers financial support of ~$600 per week. Please note: housing and transportation accommodations are not provided during the program.

This year, the labs open to hosting research students are TBD. Check back in January to see what labs are available!

Eligibility, Expectations and Activities: 

Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled in a community college in the Greater Seattle Area in Spring 2025 and be over the age of 18.

Expectations: We are looking for students who want to gain research experience, have a passion for science, and are willing to learn. Students joining this program are not expected to have prior research experience, but are expected to have some coursework indicating studies/background knowledge in chemistry/biochemistry/biology/physics. We require students to actively participate in all activities in this program to gain the most meaningful experience.

Activities:

Application Review Process: Applications are open until Feb 21, 2025. Acceptance letters will be sent out no later than March 17, 2025.

Contact: If you have any questions about the program, please email incsuw@uw.edu.