Jump Start

The Jump Start Program will invite 100 rising high school juniors and seniors to participate in a week-long summer science immersion program at the University of Maryland. The program is jointly sponsored by the College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences, University of Maryland and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI). HHMI supports programs that promote knowledge of the basic sciences and enhance the training of future biomedical scientists. Students considering a career in the sciences will have the opportunity to learn the tools of modern life sciences research and experience the excitement of discovery. In addition to carrying out laboratory investigations, students will participate in seminars and professional development workshops. The program is free for all participants.

There are three themes planned for the Summer 2012 Jump Start Program:

Biomedical Science (offered Sessions 1 & 2)                           Students will learn how cellular and molecular techniques are changing the way we diagnose and treat disease. The program includes a field trip. Due to the intensive nature of this session, we recommend that applicants have completed Advanced Placement biology or the equivalent.
Forensic Science (offered Session 1) Students will learn modern biological methodologies (including analytical chemistry, entomology, DNA electrophoresis) that are used to solve crimes.
Animal Behavior and Physiology (offered Session 2) This program will focus on the behavioral and physiological characteristics of animals that allow them to be successful in their respective environments. The program includes a field trip to the National Zoological Park.

Program Schedule

Each one-week session runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM each day (M-F). Students will have a lunch break from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, during which they may purchase lunch from one of the many vendors at the Stamp Student Union. Participants are responsible for transportation to and from campus each day; no on-site housing is available.

  • Session 1: July 16-20
  • Session 2: July 23-27

Application Instructions

For more information contact:

Dr. Kaci Thompson, Director
Jump Start Program
1313 Symons Hall
College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences
University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742

301-405-3353
HHMI@umd.edu