RockEDU Science Outreach represents the collective science outreach and engagement efforts out of The Rockefeller University. The RockEDU team works in collaboration with scientists, students, educators, and fellow engagement professionals to produce programs and resources that meet the specific needs of our audiences. Our research education programs for high school juniors and seniors include LAB Jumpstart and SSRP.
The Rockefeller University high school outreach programs must be enrolled in a New York City public school, and must be at least 16 years of age by the start of the program
The Summer Neuroscience Program (SNP) at The Rockefeller University is a two-week science outreach program for NYC public high schoolers. Led by graduate students, the program takes a look at ongoing research in neuroscience in an effort to understand how our brain works and how it relates to our daily life. We aim to introduce students to the brain, while emphasizing how many exciting, open questions remain.
Participants in the Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program (SSRP) students become immersed in scientific culture while gaining an appreciation for the process of biomedical discovery.
Through a combination of laboratory experimentation, interactive lectures, and dynamic coursework, students will learn fundamental research techniques, become better acquainted with scientific peer-reviewed literature, and improve critical thinking. Equally as important, students will have a lot of fun -- we strive to make the SSRP an inclusive and supportive environment where every student’s voice is heard and respected.
Please be aware that the review process for the Summer Science Research Program is extensive. This is due to the nature of the program: each student is individually matched with a volunteer scientist-mentor. A match is determined by a number of criteria, including the personal goals of the student, the needs of the laboratory, and the availability of volunteer scientist-mentors.
It should also be noted that while Rockefeller has 75 laboratories, some research, such as that pertaining to infectious diseases or human studies, may not be appropriate for high school summer research. Consequently, acceptance into the program is based on a high score during the application review and on a successful match with a scientist-mentor.
