By Hazel Scott/ASU
Alabama State University (ASU), with funding from the U.S. Department of Education's MSEIP program, is hosting an enriching eight-week Summer High School Research Training program from June 2 to July 23, 2025. The program provides a unique learning opportunity for six high school students who aspire to pursue undergraduate degrees in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields.
Program Highlights
Participants will engage in "hands-on" scientific research projects under the guidance of acclaimed ASU researchers, focusing on areas such as bioengineering, cancer biology, nanobiotechnology, and pathogen science. The program curriculum extends beyond lab work to include:
- Scientific lecture seminars and workshops (e.g., "Introduction to the frog Xenopus laevis as a model organism for Biomedical Research," Laser Induced Break Spectroscopy).
- Training in scientific writing and speaking.
- Guidance on undergraduate school applications and career opportunities in academia and industry.
- Professional and developmental skills activities.
- Educational field trips, including visits to Auburn University's various departments (Poultry Science, Chemical Engineering, Plasma Physics).
This year’s participants are primarily from Montgomery and surrounding areas, including from Loveless Academic Magnet Program (LAMP), Stanhope Elmore High School, and Eastwood Christian School. Each student receives a $2,000 stipend and lunch for the eight-week duration.
Leadership and Impact
Dr. Komal Vig, Professor of Biology and the Principal Investigator of ASU's MSEIP program, leads a team of ASU faculty in implementing this summer initiative. Vig has spearheaded the MSEIP program at ASU since 2016.
“One of the goals of the MSEIP program is to prepare high school students for a successful transition to STEM undergraduate programs. We anticipate that this exciting research experience will lead to the successful pursuit of undergraduate/graduate degrees in STEM fields by this year’s participating students,” Vig said. “I’m very excited to provide this hands-on, exciting research experience, showcasing ASU research capabilities to this group of enthusiastic students.”
Vig said the national MSEIP program has the potential for having a major impact on STEM education in high schools across the country.
“Alabama State University is honored to have been chosen by the U.S. Department of Education to help stimulate these young scholars in its MSEIP program so we might get more High Schools to study and advance scientific study, which ultimately helps America," Vig said.
Program Culmination
The summer activities will conclude with a Research Symposium on July 23. Students will present their research findings as posters, followed by a celebratory luncheon and award ceremony. The symposium will be open to ASU faculty, students, parents, advisors, and the public, showcasing the impressive work of the participants.