Monell Science Apprenticeship Program (MSAP)

Posted by Monell Chemical Senses Center on December 14, 2015

Science education is a core component of the Monell Chemical Senses Center’s mission. As the world’s only scientific research institute dedicated to taste, smell, and nutritional sciences, Monell is well positioned to provide superb hands-on training for the next generation of biomedical scientists. That is why I am writing to you about the Monell Science Apprenticeship Program (MSAP) – a paid, 7-week summer internship experience. Each summer, the Center welcomes local high school and college students into our labs to conduct bench-side research along with our scientists.

The MSAP’s mission is to increase scientific knowledge and technical skills and encourage Philadelphia-area youth – especially those from groups typically underrepresented in the sciences – to pursue careers in the biomedical sciences. The apprenticeship focuses on:

• Providing students with hands-on research training and high-quality mentoring from a full-time scientist
• Improving student learning and encouraging critical thinking and communication skills
• Increasing appreciation of the chemical senses

Because our mission is to promote diversity in the sciences, we focus on recruiting racial and ethnic minorities, women, and the economically disadvantaged. You have access to students. Help us find high-achieving students who have good grades and who are curious about science but who have little or no science experience outside the classroom. I ask of you, if you know students who would excel in this program, please encourage them to apply today.

http://www.monell.org/education_training/science_apprenticeship_program/application_process

Better yet, hand select three to five students whom you know will benefit from seven weeks of full-time, hands on science experience. Applicants who are admitted typically have strong support and assistance from teachers in completing the application. Supporting a student who is applying may involve helping them complete the application, proof reading their personal statement essay, and helping the student prepare for an interview. Please, contact us at studentprogram@monell.org to let us know which of your students would best fit the program.

Application materials can be downloaded from our website. All applications are due by December 15, 2014 January 15, 2016. Please visit our website for more information or contact us at studentprogram@monell.org.

Please send all correspondence to the Monell Science Apprenticeship Program at 3500 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104 or via email to studentprogram@monell.org. Thank you for helping us make this program a success.