Middle and High School Students
Research Apprenticeship Program
Legacy Durham, a junior at Omaha North High School, is part of the pathology and microbiology apprenticeship program.
The Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology Research Apprenticeship Program is an inclusive program designed to offer Omaha Public High School students an opportunity to work in an active biomedical research lab on the UNMC campus. Students will be able to learn core techniques in molecular biology and other related areas such as cell biology, cancer biology, or microbiology in addition to the latest knowledge in their host lab’s field of study.
The program is intended to last one semester with the possibility to continue should they and their mentor mutually agree to do so. Students are paid on an hourly basis for their time spent in the lab and will be required to fill out time sheets to log their hours. Students must be 16 years or older to apply for a position. Students from diverse backgrounds are highly encouraged to apply. Help with the application process is available for those who need it. Transportation is also available.
Read more about the program.
For more information, please contact Scot Ouellette, PhD.
Young Scientist Research Workshop
The Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology hosts the Young Scientist Research Workshop (YSRW) that aims to promote STEM education and provide young scientists with hands-on experience in biomedical research. The workshop will introduce students to scientific methods, guiding them through the process of formulating hypotheses, designing experiments, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions. Participants will engage in experiments covering areas such as insect physiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology, using Tribolium castaneum (red flour beetle) as a genetic model system.
There are 10 spots available (5 for middle school and 5 for high school students) for those currently enrolled in grades 8–12. This FREE weeklong workshop will take place from Monday, July 28, to Friday, Aug. 1, 2025.
Application deadline: All application materials must be submitted by Monday, March 31, 2025.
Awardees will be notified by May 30, 2025.
Program Location
The program will take place at the University of Nebraska Medical Center Campus. Durham Research Center 2 (DRC 2), 560 S. 45th St., Omaha, NE 68198. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from the workshop each day. The program will begin promptly at 9:30 a.m. and conclude at 4:30 p.m. Students should gather in the lobby of the DRC 2 building by 9:15 a.m.
Eligibility Requirements
Students who meet these requirements are encouraged to apply:
- Enrolled in grades 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12
- Have a cumulative GPA of more than 3.5
- Submit a compelling personal statement and a strong letter of recommendation
Application Requirements
- Completion of this online form, which includes a personal statement (500-word limit)
- Completion and submission of the YSRW Parent/Guardian permission form
- Submission of one (1) letter of recommendation
For more information, please email Sujata Chaudhari, PhD, Young Scientist Research Workshop director.
UNMC High School Alliance
This yearlong experience offers innovative courses for juniors and seniors that are not available in the traditional high school setting, such as infectious diseases, biomedical research and medical decision-making. Find more information about the High School Alliance.
