NeuroAcademy

A Summer Enrichment Program

For High School Students

This hands-on training course will introduce students to fundamental biological based neuroscience at the molecular and cellular levels. Modern laboratory techniques will be explored through hands-on experimentation, while developing critical thinking skills to perform rigorous, hypothesis-based research and bioinformatics. In addition, students will be trained to access, read, and critically evaluate primary research literature. For 3-weeks in the summer, this program will provide students with the opportunity to learn and apply fundamental biological information and approaches.

We believe that this enrichment program offers a unique gateway into potential research opportunities both at the Burke Neurological Institute and other institutions and has the potential to improve a student’s preparation for college-level science curriculum.

Concept 1: Molecular Biology and Genetics

Conceptual Knowledge: This content addresses both the fundamental principles and techniques of molecular biology. Students gain an in-depth knowledge of nucleic acid structure, molecular genetics, and the biochemistry of transcription and protein synthesis.

Content: DNA concepts, PCR, gel electrophoresis, plasmids, restriction enzymes, cloning, bacterial transformation, plasmid preps.

Concept 2: Cell Biology of the Nervous System

Conceptual Knowledge: This content will explore how we determine the spatial, temporal, and cell-type specific expression of a protein to ultimately address its functional role.

Content: Cell and tissue fixation, tissue cultre, immunocytochemistry, imaging, transfection and reporter expression, in situ hybridization.

Concept 3: Computation Biology in Basic and Clinical Research

Conceptual Knowledge: This content will explore approaches to analyzing large data sets, the means of determining significance, and assessing outcome measures.

Content: bioinformatics, statistics, animal behavior.

There are 2 separate sessions being offered this summer:

July 7, 2025 —  July 25, 2025

July 28, 2025 — August 15, 2025

Full Day, Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m to 4:30 p.m.
Small Class Size: no more than 18 Students

Registration opens: Registration is currently open

Deadline for applications: May 31, 2025 (or when enrollment level has been reached. Prior sessions filled early so registering early is strongly advised)

Acceptance will be on a rolling admission and tuition will be due at the time of acceptance.

Students are responsible for housing, transportation, and meals as they are not provided by the program.

Pre-requisite or equivalent: Successful completion of NYS Regents Living Environment or equivalent Biology class. A cumulative 3.4 G.P.A. or better (unless special circumstances can be provided).

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required for participation.

Tuition: $4,000

We will offer one NeuroAcademy scholarships for a tuition waiver for each session. To apply, compose a 500 word essay describing your financial need and submit your essay when you register

Step 1 – Registration and Payment Form

Collect the following docuemets and register and upload documents using the link below (MS Word or PDF): High School Transcript (a student copy is acceptable), Resume or C.V., 500 Word Essay (if applying for scholarship)

If requesting a scholarship, include the essay at time of registration. If no essay is uploaded, you will be sent a link to pay tuition at the time of acceptance.

Step 2 – Letter of Recommendations (2)

For all participants, ask two teachers, mentors, or advisors that are able to accurately judge your abilities and motivations to write a letter of recommendation. Share this webpage with your referee and ask them to complete the NeuroAcademy Reference Form to submit their letter of recommendation.

You are welcome to contact burkeneuroacademy@med.cornell.edu with any questions regarding the program and registration.