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98108 Requisition #

Created in 2008, the Introductory College Level Experience in Microbiology (iCLEM) program provides Bay Area youth from communities traditionally underrepresented in the sciences with paid research internships in state-of-the-art labs. iCLEM targets high potential, under-resourced high school students who have a deep interest in science or engineering and for whom this program would provide the critical difference in pursuing a higher education degree and a career in science. The high teacher-to-student ratio ensures intensive hands-on assistance for students in both the lab and classroom throughout the workday. In addition to training the students in basic science and research, the program exposes students to industry field trips, career exploration, and preparation for the college admissions process.

iCLEM is a multi-layered program that connects students with peers that are also interested in science, science educators, undergraduate students who are majoring in science at a UC institution, rotating science advisors that conduct research at the Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI), and the JBEI education and outreach team. Since 2008, iCLEM has trained 90 high school students and 34 teachers and teachers-in-training: 98% of iCLEM students are low-income, and the majority are immigrants or the children of immigrants; 87% are the first generation to attend college; 98% of iCLEM students go on to college; and more than 80% plan to major in science or engineering.

 

Program Highlights for Summer 2023:

  • Receive a stipend of $3,000 for the program from June 20, 2023 to July 28, 2023

  • Complete a hands-on, real-world research project in a state-of-the-art laboratory mentored by JBEI researchers and UC undergrads.  

  • We plan for the 2023 program to be a hybrid experience, which will be dependent on health and safety guidance provided by LBNL leadership.  The program will run 5 days a week, on weekdays during the approximate hours of 9am-3pm. On-site research activities will take place at our Emeryville facility 2-3 days a week. Instruction on the other days will take place in an online conference call environment. Some weeks will also include in-person field trips.

  • Learn fundamental concepts in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biofuels, and synthetic biology.

  • Prepare for the college admission process – write and revise a personal statement and learn about admissions requirements and financial aid.

  • Explore careers through discussions with STEM professionals and visits to local biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.

  • Gain skills and confidence in communicating scientific research.


Below are perspectives from the different groups based on their experiences and projects conducted in iCLEM:

iCLEM Introductory Video

2018 iCLEM: Students Share Their Highlights

2017 iCLEM: Weekly Blogs

2014 iCLEM student Danyelle Cross: iCLEM Experience

2014 iCLEM student Karen Ochoa: Personal Statement

2014 iCLEM science advisor Jennifer Hiras: iCLEM Experience

2015 iCLEM teaching assistant Hannah Spinner: Research or Education: Why Choose?

More on the iCLEM Research Project

News stories about iCLEM

While the application process is rigorous, we place primary importance on the student’s background, teachers’ recommendations, and the student’s strong desire to succeed in the program. The student’s academic record is considered, but it is not the only factor in our selection process.

To be eligible for iCLEM, you must meet all the following requirements:
(1) be 15 years old by December 31, 2022;
(2) be currently enrolled as a sophomore or junior at a high school in Alameda, Contra Costa, or San Francisco County;
(3) be a US citizen, permanent resident or DACA recipient;
(4) have a GPA of at least 2.5 and passed Algebra 1 and Biology;
(5) have an annual household income of less than $104,445 in Alameda County, $100,780 in Contra Costa County, or $122,565 in San Francisco County. For families larger than four persons, $12,000 per person may be added to the income limitations for each county.
(6) commit to being present from June 20, 2023 to July 28, 2023.

Application Procedures:
Qualified students must apply online by March 24, 2023
Applications submitted after 11:59 pm on March 24, 2023 will not be considered, we encourage you to apply as early as possible to leave plenty of time for any problems that may occur.
Finalists for the iCLEM program will be invited to interview with JBEI in April.

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Berkeley Lab is committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments.

Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab’s mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

Equal Opportunity and IDEA Information Links:
Know your rights, click here for the supplement: "Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law." and the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.4.

 

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The Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory provides accommodation to otherwise qualified internal and external applicants who are disabled or become disabled and need assistance with the application process. Internal and external applicants that need such assistance may contact the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory to request accommodation by telephone at 510-486-7635, by email to eeoaa@lbl.gov or by U.S. mail at EEO/AA Office, One Cyclotron Road, MS90R-2121, Berkeley, CA 94720. These methods of contact have been put in place ONLY to be used by those internal and external applicants requesting accommodation.