More than 110 student scientists from around California showcased their enthusiasm, passion and “spark” for regenerative medicine and stem cell research at this year’s annual CIRM SPARK Conference.
Hosted by Cedars Sinai from Aug. 8-9 in Los Angeles, this year’s event showcased the extraordinary potential of high school students who are poised to become the trailblazers of tomorrow.
Known as the Summer Program to Accelerate Regenerative Medicine Knowledge, the culminating event featured a trivia night, keynote speakers, 2-minute research presentations from each participant and poster sessions where students could expand upon their research projects.
Throughout their summer internships, participants had an opportunity to work in cohorts on cutting-edge stem cell projects at research labs throughout the state. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, the diverse group of early-career scientists had access to resources and hands-on-training experiences.
“This experience introduced me to people in my lab that became my family. I have met so many extraordinary people through CIRM SPARK. I am excited to share my work from the lab,” said Neena Gowda, a high school student who participated in the SPARK program at UC Riverside.
About CIRM’s SPARK Program
The SPARK program is one of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine’s (CIRM) many educational programs dedicated to building a diverse and highly-skilled workforce to support the growing regenerative medicine economy right here in California.
CIRM’s paid summer program offers diverse high school students unique opportunities in stem cell research—particularly students who might not otherwise have the chance to take part in internships due to economic constraints.
To date, 736 students have participated in the SPARK program across the state. Currently, there are 11 active sites throughout California, each with its own eligibility criteria and application process.
Innovation on Display
From exploring the potential of stem cells in treating degenerative eye diseases and blood cancers to studying novel regenerative therapies for cardiovascular conditions, the projects spanned a wide range of exciting areas within regenerative medicine.
Students displayed projects that involved gene expression analysis and advanced techniques such as CRISPR, a novel gene-editing technology.
“I love being able to explore neurological disorders and bring my discoveries back to my friends and family. It was an honor to be in the lab and to have an opportunity to discuss the science of neurological disorders free of stigma. I truly love science,” said Shaylyn Carthen, a high school student who interned in UC Davis’ SPARK program.
Natalie Alvarez from the SPARK program at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science explored stem cell colorectal cancer markers during her summer, but also developed a strong bond with undergraduate students who served as mentors during her SPARK internship.
“That is me crying in the picture on the last day at the lab,” she said, pointing to her final slide of her presentation, explaining how influential the entire experience had been.
Check out other photos from the SPARK two-day conference.
The enthusiasm displayed by these budding scientists show that the brightest minds—even if only in high school—have the potential to rise as leaders in regenerative medicine. Congrats to all the SPARK participants and their program directors on another successful summer!
If you are interested in learning more about SPARK, visit CIRM’s education programs page or email education@cirm.ca.gov. See more student photo submissions via Instagram by following the official SPARK hashtag #CIRMSPARKLab.
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- Source: https://blog.cirm.ca.gov/2023/08/23/cirms-annual-spark-conference-showcases-the-trailblazers-of-tomorrow/
