Course Listing
Grade – 9th to 12th
Course Information
| Age | 15-18 |
| Format/ Schedule | Vacation / Summer |
| Location | Torrance, CA |
| 2024 Dates | Summer: June 10th – June 14th; July 8th – July 12th; July 29th – August 2nd |
| Duration | 5 Days |
| Times | 10.00am–3.00pm, Monday-Friday |
| Class size | 6 |
| Eligibility | Intro to Stem Cell Systems is an introductory hands-on program, open to both residential and international students. It is suited to science enthusiasts with a basic understanding of cell and molecular biology. No prior laboratory experience is required to take this course. Applicants must have passed high-school Math, English and Biology or equivalent courses with a grade C or above. Students are required to arrange their own transportation to and from the program. |
| Admission | Eligible students are accepted on a first-come-first-served rolling basis up to 1 week before the course start date. Additional questions? Click here to learn more about our general admissions policy or call us at 310-483-3651. |
Course Details
| Description | Intro to stem cell systems is an entry-level course aimed at STEM enthusiasts who are interested in gaining real-world experience. Participants learn essential concepts in stem cell science through hands-on lab classes that explore the biology and application of human stem cells. The program is taught in a biotech research facility by professional scientists who are also exceptional mentors. Each day focuses on a different topic in stem cell biology, creating an in-depth overview of the history, science, and ethics of stem cell research. Intro to Stem Cell Systems provides: – Practical experience working with the three predominant stem cell research models – cancer, adult (neural) and induced pluripotent. – Daily college-level lectures that provide a conceptual overview of the lab-classes. – An introduction to literature searching using PubMed and Google Scholar. – A literature research activity focusing on the dangers of unregulated stem cell therapies and the clinics that promote them. – Exposure to biotechnology and real-world science. – Applicable skills and knowledge for future STEM programs such as AP biology, science fair research, college lab classes and workplace internships. – An opportunity to connect with other science enthusiasts. – A certificate of completion. – A resource pack containing guidance and information relating to STEM careers. |
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| Curriculum | Intro to Stem Cell Systems covers the following topics in stem cell science: Day 1: Basic stem cell biology and stem cell culture techniques |
| Features | – College-level lectures *Intro to stem cell systems provides practical training in: BSL-2 lab safety procedures, stem cell culture, aseptic technique, tissue microdissection, cell derivation, stem cell isolation, electroporation, antibody labeling and microscopy (phase contrast and fluorescent). |
Oge Ogbogu –
This program was one of the best experiences I have had. I had the opportunity to not only learn about stem cells and their applications, but I was given a chance to practice some of this research in the laboratory and learn valuable skills. The knowledge that I took away I am still using today in school and increased my interest and curiosity in this new field of science – Oge Ogbogu, 2018 student.