Do you know a budding Marie Curie? Fairfield University's BASE Camp (Broadening Access to Science Education) may be just the place for her to boost her science skills and explore careers in science and technology fields looking for talented young women.

Fairfield is accepting applications through April 20 for this free two-week residential program for Bridgeport high school girls interested in hands-on scientific research. The program runs July 9 through July 20, and features experiential learning in mathematics and the natural sciences with girls working alongside female professors who serve as both teachers and vital role models. The camp is a lively living and learning experience: Girls study in state-of-the-art labs, live in residence halls and enjoy field trips, including a visit to the University of Connecticut's Health Center.

Each girl is assigned to assist with one of six ongoing research projects. This summer's projects include research on how fish swim, how people think and pay attention, how cancer cells live and die, the physics of sports, how genes work, and alcohol's long-term effects. The girls work with both faculty and undergraduate student researchers, getting a real feel for what it's like to be a scientist.

BASE Camp is open to female high schoolers completing their sophomore or junior year at a Bridgeport high school. They must be in good standing and have an interest in science. Space is limited to 24 students and priority may be given to first-time applicants.

The National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparity Populations, part of the National Institutes of Health, provides funding for BASE camp. All food, lodging and field trips are included.

The application deadline is April 20. For more information, visit www.fairfield.edu/basecamp .

Posted On: 04-05-2012 11:04 AM

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