The Summer Training Advanced Research (STAR) program at the Lundquist Institute is an 8-week program that gives high school students hands-on experience in biomedical research, career exploration, and mentorship. Students are selected through a rigorous process and matched with biomedical researchers. A South High student was part of the 2026 STAR cohort, and the institute also offers one-day field trips and workshops during the school year. Jennifer met with the program’s director, Dr. Mina Desai, on October 5.
In Jennifer’s words
It was a pleasure meeting with Dr. Mina Desai, Director of the Summer Training Advanced Research (STAR) program at the Lundquist Institute yesterday!
The 8-week STAR program gives high school students hands-on experience in biomedical research, career exploration, and mentorship. Students are selected through a rigorous process and matched with biomedical researchers for an immersive research experience that includes lectures, presentations, and lab work. I was especially excited to learn that a South High student was part of the 2026 STAR cohort. Go Spartans!
The Lundquist Institute also offers one-day field trips and workshops throughout the school year, giving more students opportunities to explore biomedical science and research.
Thank you, Dr. Desai and Ms. Wesley Chen, Education Manager, for meeting with me and sharing this wonderful program! Investing in our students and expanding access to STEM opportunities is so important for their future!
