Applications for 2024 are now open and are due March 17, 2024 – apply here!
Please visit us on our new iCLEM website: https://www.iclem.org/
Information for iCLEM 2024:
The Introductory College Level Experience in Microbiology (iCLEM) is a paid summer science intensive for economically disadvantaged high school sophomores and juniors. The program seeks to broaden students’ understanding of biotechnology, microbiology, and biofuels. In addition to completing a research project, the program also exposes students to career exploration and preparation for the college application process.
iCLEM Applications will be released on iCLEM.org.
To be eligible for iCLEM, you must meet all the following requirements. Due to the nature of our program funding, we are unable to make any exceptions:
(1) be 15 years old by December 31, 2023;
(2) be currently enrolled as a sophomore or junior at a high school in Alameda, Contra Costa, or San Francisco County;
(3) be a US citizen, permanent resident or DACA recipient;
(4) have a GPA of at least 2.5 and passed Algebra 1 and Biology;
(5) have an annual household income of less than $104,445 in Alameda County, $100,780 in Contra Costa County, or $122,565 in San Francisco County. For families larger than four persons, $12,000 per person may be added to the income limitations for each county.
(6) commit to being present from June 14, 2024 to July 26, 2024.
Program Details for Summer 2024:
The 2024 program will consist of:
- One prep week: June 10 – June 14, 2024 (mostly virtual and asynchronous) to complete required trainings and orientations.
- Six weeks in-person research in our laboratories in Emeryville, CA: June 17 – July 26, 2024
Program Highlights:
• Receive a stipend of $3,000 for the program from June 14, 2024 to July 26, 2024.
• Complete a hands-on, real-world research project in a state-of-the-art laboratory mentored by JBEI researchers and UC undergrads.
• Learn fundamental concepts in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biofuels, and synthetic biology.
• Prepare for the college admission process – write and revise a personal statement and learn about admissions requirements and financial aid.
• Explore careers through discussions with STEM professionals and visits to local biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.
• Gain skills and confidence in communicating scientific research.Items Required for the application:
- A current transcript
- Personal Statement – describe yourself, your life goals, and the world you come from – your family, your school, or community. Tell us how the world has shaped your dreams and aspirations.
- Why are you applying for iCLEM statement – Tell us why you are a good fit for the iCLEM program and why you are interested in the program.
- Name and email address of a teacher who is willing to provide a letter of reference upon request.
Please begin the application process early to ensure you have time to complete all components of the application. We are unable to accept late applications. While the application process is rigorous, we place primary importance on the student’s background, teachers’ recommendations, and the student’s strong desire to do science and work hard during the summer. The student’s academic record is considered, but it is not the only factor in our selection process.
For students who do not meet our requirements, we recommend the following resources to find summer internships for high school students:
Berkeley Lab K-12 High School Student Opportunities
For questions about the iCLEM program, please contact Sara Harmon ([email protected])
