Amgen Scholars Program at Columbia University

Columbia University offers a competitive ten-week summer research program to a select group of motivated undergraduate students who will benefit from the opportunity of hands-on laboratory research. Through the generous support of the Amgen Foundation, this program provides an immersive experience in discovering something completely new while learning to overcome challenges inherent in scientific research. This fellowship aims to teach the next generation of scientists the tricks of the trade to performing cutting-edge research, involving key elements such as hands-on experience in premier labs, weekly meetings within the laboratories, and informal discussions with accomplished scientists at all levels of training. Participants gain exposure to diverse areas of research through attendance at the ASP Symposium, research lectures, and peer oral presentations. In addition, numerous activities like peer research introductions, journal club, and elevator pitches foster the development of tools to explain undertaken research to individuals outside the laboratory. The program culminates in an oral presentation to peers and the submission of an original research article based on the students' work. Efforts to teach young scientists to fully understand their work and to explain it to others in different sub-fields is emphasized, aiming to improve the understanding of science among students and the general public. Participants receive a stipend, flex dining credit, and housing on the Morningside campus, and are required to present their research.