About B.I.G. Summer
Bruins-In-Genomics (B.I.G.) Summer Research Program is an 8-week full-time immersion program for undergraduates interested in learning how to read and analyze genes and genomes. Through this program students will have the opportunity to experience graduate-level coursework, and learn the latest cutting-edge research, tools and techniques used by leading scientists to solve real-world problems.
Program Overview
The B.I.G. Summer offers two tracks:
In Track 1, students attend two weeks of hands-on bioinformatics workshops that cover fundamental next generation sequencing data and statistical analysis methods, followed by six weeks of research in a laboratory under the supervision of a UCLA faculty mentor. This track is recommended for students with no prior knowledge of bioinformatics.
In Track 2, students bypass the workshops and join a laboratory at the start of the program. This track is recommended for students who have taken at least one bioinformatics/ biostatistics course and describe their UCLA laboratory preference.
Students in both tracks will participate in weekly science talks, weekly student journal clubs, professional development seminars, social outings and networking opportunities.
At the end of the program students will present their research at a scientific poster session and award ceremony.
Highlights
- Gain research experience and build relationships with UCLA faculty
- Work on cutting-edge research with leading scientists
- Make lifelong friendships
- Trips to LACMA, the Getty Museum, Hollywood, Santa Monica Beach, and many more places
Award Information
Admitted students will receive a $4,200 stipend and on-campus housing accommodations. Funds are also available to cover travel costs and a portion of the GRE prep course.
Sample Schedule
Full-time participation is expected of students. Day-to-day schedule will depend on the lab students are placed in.
Week 1 – 3
- Orientation
- Individual Development Plan
- Track 1: Intensive next generation sequencing workshops. Topics include NGS Analysis Tools, Intro to R, and Python, RNAseq I,II, Modern Statistics, Variant Calling
- Track 2: Full-time research in lab
Week 4 – 8
- Track 1 & 2: Full-time research in lab
- Poster Session & Award Ceremony
Weekly Activities
- Professional Development Workshops
- Journal Club
- GRE Prep Course (eligible students)
- Lab Meetings
Social Activities
- Weekly Virtual Social Hours
- Virtual Activities & Contests