Summer Research Opportunities (STARS)

This eight-week program is designed to give teachers and students an opportunity to work side-by-side with a faculty host in a research laboratory. Participants are paid a stipend and are required to present the results of their research at the end of the summer. Applications are available at the beginning of December.

Summer Research Program for Teachers

Through participation in the Summer Research Program, teachers not only learn new techniques, but also rekindle their interest in science, which positively impacts their students. In addition, teachers use their newfound knowledge and skills to develop classroom activities that relate to their areas of research. This program is open to any teacher in the state of Texas.

Summer Research Program for Students

An important purpose of this program is to encourage students of the Dallas Independent School District with excellent academic records and a love of science to purse science-related fields. Limited funding is now available for students from other school districts. Each high school junior completing the program acts as an emissary at their home school by giving presentations outlining their research experience.  

Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 16 years old by June 1, 2013, be currently classified as a junior, and be enrolled in high school. All citizens or nationals of the United States or those eligible to work in the United States are eligible regardless of race, national origin, religion, gender, age, or disability. This experience is intended to give students the opportunity to experience what it is like to work in a modern biomedical research laboratory, so students with prior research experience are not eligible for this program.
Any or all of the following will be considered as positive factors in choosing successful candidates:

  • Evidence of superior academic achievement.
  • Strong interest and desire to pursue education in science and/or medicine.
  • Membership in one or more of the following groups who are considered underrepresented in the sciences:
    • Traditionally underrepresented minority students (Alaska Natives, Black/African-Americans, Hispanic/Latino, Native American Indian, Native Pacific Islanders).
    • Students from lower socio-economic status (must qualify for the Federal Free or Reduced Lunch Program).
    • Students who would be the first in their families to attend college.
    • Other limitations that places the applicant in an underrepresented group. 

Summer Stock

In addition to their work in the laboratory, teachers develop a hands-on classroom activity related to the area of their research to take back to their classroom.  These activities are compiled and printed for distribution. You can view a table of contents on the Resources page. If you would like a copy this compilation, please contact us.

All STARS events and materials are free-of-charge to teachers.