Research and Lab Work in Medicine for High Schoolers at Dartmouth

Course Description: Research and Lab Work in Medicine for High Schoolers at Dartmouth

Discovering the future of medicine: A Precollege Course in Biomedical Science

Embark on a transformative journey into the world of biomedical science and clinical research with our exclusive two-week precollege course. Hosted by the prestigious Dartmouth faculty, this program is designed for ambitious students eager to explore the intersection of laboratory science and life-saving medical treatments. Gain unparalleled access to cutting-edge research techniques, guided by experts and medical professionals who are at the forefront of the field.

Why It is a Great Choice

• Immerse yourself in authentic biomedical research and clinical trial design.

• Gain firsthand experience with laboratory techniques and ethical considerations in medicine.

• Explore pathways to careers in medicine and biomedical research with seasoned professionals.

• Present your findings in a conference-style poster session, mirroring real scientific communication.

• Earn a branded Course Completion Certificate and a Letter of Recognition to enhance your academic portfolio.

Instructor:Jeffrey Stott, PhD

Instructor Bio

Jeffrey Stott, PhD, is a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at Dartmouth College. Dr. Stott's research focuses on the rodent head-direction system and decision-making, using electrophysiology and behavioral neuroscience to study the brain mechanisms of spatial cognition and decision-making in rodents. Dr. Stott has experience teaching undergraduate courses in animal behavior and biology, as well as a neuroethology course at Dartmouth. He is passionate about mentoring students and fostering curiosity about neuroscience. Dr. Stott holds a PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Minnesota and completed his undergraduate studies at St. John's College in Santa Fe, an institution known for its interdisciplinary, discussion-based approach to education.

Location

Nestled within the vibrant academic environment of Dartmouth College, this course offers students a unique opportunity to learn in state-of-the-art facilities. Participants will benefit from access to modern laboratories, seminar rooms, and the inspiring presence of leading researchers and faculty. This setting fosters a dynamic learning experience, encouraging collaboration and innovation.

Course Description

Week 1: Foundations of Medical Research

• Lab Orientation & Safety: Begin with a comprehensive introduction to laboratory safety and essential techniques.

• Core Techniques Training: Master fundamental skills such as pipetting, culturing, and microscopy.

• Mini-Experiments: Engage in hands-on experiments to apply your newfound skills.

• Seminars with Experts: Attend insightful sessions on cell biology, microbiology, genetics, and more.

• Ethics in Medicine: Delve into the ethical considerations and regulations of medical research.

• Begin Group Projects: Collaborate with peers to initiate your research project.

Week 2: From Experiments to Applications

• Advanced Lab Skills: Hone your expertise with advanced laboratory techniques.

• Field Visits: Experience research in action through visits to clinical and research sites.

• Research in Action: Observe and participate in real-world biomedical research applications.

• Project Work: Dedicate time to developing and refining your group research project.

Admission Criteria

Passionate about medicine and research? This program is your gateway to a future in biomedical science. Applicants should demonstrate:

• A recommended GPA of 3.5 or above in relevant fields.

• A completed Summer Institute application with thoughtful responses to short-answer questions.

Who Should Attend

This course is ideal for aspiring researchers and innovators eager to kickstart their academic and professional journeys in medicine. Discover the fundamentals that will deepen your understanding of the field and help you decide if a career in medical research is your calling.

Benefits

Upon completion, students will receive:

• A Branded Course Completion Certificate acknowledging successful participation in the Dartmouth Summer Scholars program.

• A Letter of Recognition from Summer Institute, celebrating your academic achievements.

Activities

Conclude your experience with a Poster Session & Closing Symposium, where you'll present your research projects to peers, faculty, and staff in a professional conference-style setting. This is your chance to showcase your work and gain valuable feedback from experts in the field.

Join us for this unparalleled opportunity to explore the future of medicine and take the first step toward a rewarding career in biomedical science. Information is subject to change as instructors finalize course content and syllabi.

🛂 Visa Requirements for International Students

🌎 Students NOT in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program

If your home country is not one of the 40 countries in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, you will need a B-2 Visitor Visa to attend the program.

The B-2 visa is for tourism and short-term study (under 16–18 hours of classes per week).

After enrollment, you will receive a Letter of Introduction to help support your visa application.

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✔️ Students IN the U.S. Visa Waiver Program

If your country is on the Visa Waiver Program list, you do not need a visa.

However, you must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before entering the U.S.

Apply here: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta

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💼 What the International Program Fee Covers

• 📄 Visa support and pre-arrival communication

• 🚌 Transportation to and from campus

• 🕑 24/7 arrival and departure assistance

• 🏥 International medical/health insurance while abroad

• 📱 Help securing a local phone number or SIM card if needed

🌍 International Fees & Support

💵 International Registration Fee (U.S. Programs)

Students whose primary residence is outside the United States will be charged an International Registration Fee when attending a U.S.-based program.

This fee includes:

• 📄 Visa support and pre-arrival communication

• 🚌 Transportation to and from campus

• 🕑 24/7 arrival and departure assistance

• 🏥 Medical/health insurance for international students

• 📱 Help obtaining a U.S. SIM card or phone plan

Note: This fee is mandatory and non-refundable, even if the student does not use all services.

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📘 Academic Reports & College Credit

📝 Student Performance Reports

After the program ends, students receive:

• Detailed course performance summaries

• Instructor feedback

• Recommendations for continued growth

Reports can be mailed to a student’s school upon written parent request.

🎓 College Credit Programs

Students enrolled in credit-bearing classes receive:

• A grade report

• Instructions for requesting a university transcript

Acceptance of credits depends on the receiving university’s policies.

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🌎 International Student Community

Programs welcome a diverse and global student population each summer:

• 🌐 About 30% of students come from outside the U.S.

• 🌍 Representing 50–60 countries

This creates a vibrant, multicultural learning experience.

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🏠 Housing & Roommate Matching

Students complete a personal profile in the spring to assist with roommate assignments.

Matching is based on:

• Interests

• Personality

• Sleeping habits

• Age group

Roommate Requests:

• Must be mutual

• Must be same age group and gender

• Not guaranteed, though campus staff make every effort

Cultural diversity is encouraged, and many roommates come from different countries.

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🧳 What to Bring

Students should pack essentials for at least one week.

Recommended:

• Clothing for warm and cool weather

• Basic school supplies

• Personal toiletries

• Laundry supplies

Spending Money:

• $100–$150 per week (snacks, lunches, souvenirs)

• Debit card recommended for ATM withdrawals

• Credit card for emergencies

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Note: Some campuses provide bedding. A campus-specific packing list will be available after enrollment.

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✈ Travel & Airport Transportation

Programs do not arrange flights.

🚌 Airport Shuttles

Shuttle transportation (additional fee) is available to/from designated airports.

Details are included in the pre-summer transportation form.

Students must arrive/depart within scheduled shuttle windows to use this service.

• For international students, the international registration fee is $379 (residential) OR $239 (commuter) – this fee covers a medical policy for the student and their airport transfers.

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🕒 A Typical Day on Campus (Residential Programs)

A structured, activity-filled day may look like:

• 8:00 AM – Wake Up 🌅

• 8:30 AM – Breakfast 🍳

• 9:30–11:30 AM – Morning Course / Academy 📘

• 11:45 AM – Lunch 🍽

• 1:00–3:00 PM – Afternoon Course / Academy 🧪

• 3:30 PM – Activities, Social Time, or Study Hall 🎉

• 6:00 PM – Dinner 🍝

• 8:00 PM – Evening / Primetime Activities 🌆

• 10:30 PM – Return to Residence Halls 🏠

• 11:30 PM – On Floors 🌙

• 12:00 AM – In Rooms / Lights Out 😴

Activities may include:

shopping • sports • beaches • museums • movies • comedy shows • concerts • local events

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📚 Academic Experience (Enrichment & College Prep)

Programs emphasize:

• Small, interactive classes

• Supportive, enthusiastic instructors

• Hands-on learning and real-world experiences

• Field trips connected to course themes

• A wide choice of enrichment or academic courses

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🚗 Day Students (Non-Residential)

Day students follow the regular campus schedule to align with meals and activities.

Standard Schedule (Monday–Friday):

• Drop-Off: 8:30 AM

• Pick-Up: 6:00 PM

Times may vary by campus.

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🍽 Special Dietary Needs

Special meals and dietary accommodations are available.

Requirements:

Parents must complete a dietary information form during pre-arrival.

Residential & Standard Programs:

Notify the Residential Life Dean of dietary restrictions.

Day Programs (Younger Students):

Parents should inform the Program Director on-site.

Common accommodations include:

• Allergy-friendly meals

• Vegetarian/vegan options

• Gluten-free meals

• Religious dietary needs

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🛡️ Campus Safety & Supervision

Student safety is the top priority.

Safety Measures:

• Staff and counselors live on student floors

• 24/7 supervision

• Key-card residence hall access

• Daily check-ins and room checks

• Visitors must check in at the program office

• Students may move only in small groups

• Students may never leave campus alone

• Older students (14–18) may have limited group movement privileges

• 24/7 access to medical care

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📱 Emergency Communication & Response

Campus teams monitor:

• Weather

• Local events

• Road closures

• Any conditions that affect student safety

If needed, programs may:

• Move classes

• Adjust or reroute activities

• Avoid specific areas

Students receive:

• Daily notifications

• Safety messages

• Emergency push alerts

A dedicated Campus Emergency Line connects students to on-site directors.

International students receive support obtaining a local SIM card for reliable communication.

All students attend a mandatory orientation within the first 24 hours covering emergency procedures.

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🚫 Movement Policies & Program Rules

To maintain a safe, positive environment:

• Students and staff may not participate in protests

• All off-campus trips are fully chaperoned

• Security may be increased with campus police or external teams if needed

• Staff monitor all on- and off-campus locations and adjust plans immediately if necessary

📍 Dartmouth College – Campus Profile (Hanover, NH)

Dartmouth College, founded in 1769, is a distinguished Ivy League institution known for its deep academic tradition, research excellence, and strong sense of community. Set within the picturesque town of Hanover, New Hampshire, Dartmouth offers an inspiring environment for motivated students seeking challenge, intellectual exploration, and personal growth.

Surrounded by quintessential New England beauty, the campus features a blend of historic and contemporary architecture, including iconic spaces such as the Baker-Berry Library. Hanover’s walkable Main Street adds to the experience with cafés, shops, restaurants, and a welcoming small-town charm. The region also offers abundant outdoor recreation, including trails, parks, and access to the Connecticut River.

Students join a vibrant community of learners, take part in a range of academic academies, and benefit from small class sizes led by experienced instructors. The program encourages both academic achievement and social development, offering a balanced schedule of coursework, activities, and excursions designed to help students grow as scholars and individuals.

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✨ Program Environment

• Ideal for high-achieving high school students considering selective universities

• Academically rigorous curriculum taught by knowledgeable instructors

• Opportunities to explore multiple subjects across a wide variety of academies

• Supportive environment that encourages independence, collaboration, and intellectual curiosity

• Beautiful, safe, and walkable campus surrounded by natural landscapes

• Perfect blend of academics, recreation, and community engagement

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🎒 Included in Tuition

• 📘 Academic tuition

• 🏨 Housing

• 🍽 Three meals per day, 7 days per week

• 🎡 Afternoon, evening, and weekend activities and excursions

• 🚐 Transportation for all included activities

• 🏋️ Access to athletic and recreation facilities

• 🎓 College admissions presentation

• 🛌 Linens (two full sets including sheets, blanket, pillow, and towels)

• 🧺 Laundry (detergent/softener not provided)

• 🛡 Full campus safety and supervision

Note: Some specialized courses may require additional academic fees.

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🚫 Not Included in Tuition

• 📝 Application fee

• ✈ Airfare and airport transfers

• 🍽 Meals eaten off campus

• 💼 Personal spending money

• 🏥 Medical expenses

• 🎟 Supplemental academic fees (if applicable)

A standard international program fee applies for international students.

Closest airport: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS).

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🎡 Top Activities in Hanover, New Hampshire

• 🖼 Hood Museum of Art

• 🎮 Dave & Buster’s

• ⚾ Fisher Cats Minor League Baseball Game

• 🛍 Shopping at the Mall of New Hampshire

• 🎢 Six Flags New England

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🎉 Top Campus Activities

• 🎧 Silent Disco and Live Band Karaoke

• 🎭 Variety performances featuring comedians, hypnotists, mentalists, and magicians

• 🎨 Clubs: arts, baking, sports tournaments, leagues, and game nights

• 🍔 End-of-summer BBQ with lawn games and music