Each summer the House Research Institute hosts a small number of summer students to participate in their research programs. Students are selected on the basis of their academic performance and overall interest shown.
Students who are accepted into the program are given an opportunity to participate in on-going basic research programs. Mentors may also provide support letters that can be used for college applications. Currently there are no funds available for stipends.
This program is designed for high school and college students interested in medical and biological sciences and offers them a unique experience to participate in biomedical research.
High school students (17 years or older) and college students wishing to participate in this program and gain early exposure to biomedical research are encouraged to apply.
When possible, selected students will be assigned to laboratories, or programs that they express an interest in. In some instances students may be assigned to laboratories chosen for them.
The Student Internship Program runs from July 1st to August 31st. Interns should be available during the last week of June for an orientation program. Students wanting to start or leave outside of this time should arrange with their faculty mentor who will decide if it is possible to arrange flexible schedules.
Application process
Applicants should submit a letter of interest to the program director (pwebster@hei.org) explaining why a summer internship would be of interest to them.
In addition to the letter of interest, the following documents will be requested from successful applicants:
- Health certificate showing the results of a recent Rubella antibody test.
- Skin test for tuberculosis. If this is positive, then written results of a chest x-ray should be sent (do not send x-ray films).
- Proof of hepatitis testing and immunization. Some of our laboratories work with human blood, body fluids and cell lines. There is a low but still significant risk of exposure to hepatitis B or C. Students showing no immunity to hepatitis B must begin the immunization process before starting work in our laboratories.
- Signed “Informed Consent” (if under 18 this should be signed by parent or legal guardian).
- Two letters of recommendation from teachers or lecturers who know you.
Responsibilities
It is the responsibility of the applicant to understand the commitment being given by the faculty member, who will act as mentor. Students who are planning to attend summer school or participate in other summer activities (e.g. sports camp) should not apply. The best experience will come from spending a block of uninterrupted time in the laboratory of at least 6 weeks long.
Mentors are often asked to write recommendation letters for their students so it is important that a student and mentor work well together. It is the responsibility of the student to fit into the laboratory activities as quickly as possible. Mentors are busy people who volunteer their time to this program. Respect their efforts.
Application letter and questions about the program should be addressed to:
Dr. Paul Webster, Ph.D.
House Research Institute
2100 West Third Street
Los Angeles, CA 90057
Email: pwebster@hei.org