Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), part of City of Hope, today kicked off its highly regarded Helios Scholars at TGen internship program, now celebrating its 18th year.
Helios Scholars at TGen offers a unique summer experience in biomedical research for incoming and continuing undergraduate, graduate, and medical school students. This 8-week program provides students from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to develop essential skills under the mentorship of experienced TGen researchers. Participants engage in a wide range of research and administrative projects alongside faculty and staff, gaining hands-on experience. Additionally, the program features numerous seminars focused on enhancing professional skills in writing, networking, and presentation.
“Helios Scholars at TGen has been a launchpad for the careers of countless young scientists,” says Kristen Kaus, manager of Education and Outreach at TGen. “For nearly two decades, this program has allowed students to explore their passion for biomedicine and gain the skills they need to succeed as many have gone on to pursue successful careers in research, medicine, and academia.”
The 8-week program offers participants the chance to:
- Work alongside leading biomedical scientists on innovative research projects.
- Gain practical experience in laboratory techniques and methodologies.
- Network with professionals in the biomedical field.
Since its launch, Helios Scholars at TGen has trained over 750 students, many of whom have pursued careers in Arizona’s biomedical research, healthcare, and life sciences sectors. These scholars have accomplished notable successes, including acceptance into prestigious graduate and medical schools, unique career advancements, national awards and scholarships, and authorship on numerous scientific publications.
“The Helios Scholars at TGen program provides an opportunity for students to gain valuable experience and make meaningful contributions to scientific discovery,” said Paul J. Luna, president and CEO of Helios Education Foundation. “For nearly 20 years, Helios has been proud to partner with TGen and invest in the next generation of leaders that will fill innovative roles paramount to the economic prosperity of Arizona.”
The 2024 program concludes August 2 with a daylong scientific symposium where TGen celebrates the Helios Scholars for their achievements and the students compete for awards recognizing project mastery and presentation skills.
For more information about the program, please contact Kristen Kaus at 602-343-8719, or [email protected]. Media wishing to visit the labs and interview students should contact Galen Perry at 602-343-8423 or [email protected].
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About TGen, part of City of Hope
Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) is a Phoenix, Arizona-based nonprofit organization dedicated to conducting groundbreaking research with life-changing results. TGen is part of City of Hope, a world-renowned independent research and treatment center for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. This precision medicine affiliation enables both institutes to complement each other in research and patient care, with City of Hope providing a significant clinical setting to advance scientific discoveries made by TGen. TGen is focused on helping patients with neurological disorders, cancer, diabetes and infectious diseases through cutting-edge translational research (the process of rapidly moving research toward patient benefit). TGen physicians and scientists work to unravel the genetic components of both common and complex rare diseases in adults and children. Working with collaborators in the scientific and medical communities worldwide, TGen makes a substantial contribution to help patients through efficiency and effectiveness of the translational process. Follow TGen on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and X.
About Helios Education Foundation
Helios Education Foundation exists to support postsecondary attainment for all students, especially low-income and underrepresented communities, in Arizona and Florida. Driven by our fundamental beliefs of community, equity, investment, and partnership, Helios has invested about $350 million in partnerships and initiatives focused on improving third-grade reading, college-going, and postsecondary attainment in the two states we serve since 2006.