B.I.G. SUMMER

Bruins-In-Genomics (B.I.G) Summer Undergraduate Research Program

Do you have a passion for biology and computing? If so, scientists need your help to discover ways to treat and cure diseases. If you enjoy problem solving, learning new skills, and how to things works, QCB Bruins-in-Genomics (B.I.G.) Summer is for you!

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

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Award Information

Students admitted will receive a $4,000 stipend, and on-campus housing which includes breakfast. Funds are also available to cover travel costs, and 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 – 2

Orientation
Individual Development Plan
Track 1: Intensive next generation sequencing workshops. Topics include, Intro to Unix command-line, NGS Analysis Tools, Intro to R, and Python.
Track 2: Full-time research in lab

Week 3 – 8

Track 1 & 2: Full-time research in lab
Poster Session & Award Ceremony

Weekly Activities

Professional Development Workshops
Research Lunches
Journal Club
GRE Prep Course (eligible students)
Lab Meetings

Social Activities

Welcome BBQ
Student Trips – the Getty Museum, LACMA, Santa Monica Pier, Griffith Park Observatory
Friday Science Social