Published on New York State Department of Health, Wadsworth Center (https://wadsworth.org)

Research Experience for Undergraduates

2024 - The Wadsworth Center is transitioning away from the REU program to a pilot program called the Public Health Summer Academy.

 

This pilot summer program offers

  • Paid research experiences in partnership with the Association of Public Health Laboratories[1]

  • Opportunities to perform cutting edge research in a variety of Wadsworth Center laboratories

  • Seminars, workshops, and other training and science career building opportunities

 

The program will begin at the end of May 2025.  

 

Housing is not provided. 

  • Undergraduates in and around the Capital District of New York are encouraged to apply. 

 

If interested, please apply for an APHL internship[2] and 

  • Specify Wadsworth/Albany as your preferred location 

  • Select two to three mentors from Current Research Projects[3] that you would like to be placed with


The Wadsworth Center has hosted an NSF-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) summer program nearly continuously for over 30 years. The program has trained more than 300 students.

Independent research projects have been conducted in cutting-edge scientific laboratories studying fundamental aspects of cell, molecular and structural biology, organismal and population biology, and genome and evolutionary biology. Students have had the opportunity to participate in collaborative research projects, which network undergraduate students with each other and/or their mentor(s) to help them gain insight into how scientific research is conducted and to prepare them for future careers in science. Training in bioinformatics, oral and poster presentation skills, and other science-related skills has been provided as well. Stipends, meal allowances, travel reimbursement, and housing have been included.


“My most memorable experience at Wadsworth Center was discovering why my project was not working. This taught me that science is unexpected and challenging, but with perseverance and patience, everything is possible. I am grateful for this rewarding experience at Wadsworth since it was my first research experience and being here strengthened my desire to be a scientist.”  Priscilla, Univ. Puerto Rico - Mayaguez (Freshman 2016).

“This summer I not only experienced and enjoyed science first hand, but I also had an extraordinary time meeting excellent scientists and mentors. I loved the fact that every day there was something to learn and wonder about!”  Francy, SUNY-New Paltz, NY (Freshman, 2011).

“The best thing about my experience at the Wadsworth Center was doing research full time and learning what it would be like to pursue a career in science and research. It felt amazing to solve problems in the lab, collaborate with my mentors, and put my ideas to work. I also loved getting to be around so many people who are passionate about science  - spending time with fellow students and with mentors was really inspiring. After my REU, I have gained confidence in my independence and ability to succeed in a new environment, and in my decision to pursue graduate school and a career in research.”  Alice, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID (Junior 2018).

“The most memorable moment for me during this REU was when I realized just how much independence my mentor allowed me; the feeling of being in the lab and getting to make my own decisions, discoveries, and of course mistakes was truly amazing, and has not only strengthened my love of science but opened my eyes to the possibility of research as a potential career.”  Joe, Washington & Jefferson College, Washington, PA (Sophomore 2016).

“My most memorable experience from the REU program was when I received my first batch of results from my genetic screen; I was so excited and nervous that my hands were shaking! That was when I knew that research was the path for me because I want to have a job where I love what I do and where every day I’m excited for what’s to come.”  Courtney, Colgate University, Hamilton, NY (Sophomore, 2014).

“I think my most memorable moment was walking off the stage after the symposium and being really proud of myself for not only performing experiments for my research project but also for getting up in front of everyone to talk about them.”  Sarah, SUNY Fredonia, NY (Junior 2018).

"These past 10 weeks, I was able to experience real science (with all of its ups and downs) for the first time in my life. I am leaving this program with a fueled desire to pursue a career in science and make a difference."  Dalton, Dutchess Community College, Poughkeepsie, NY (Sophomore 2016).

“The thing I loved the most about my time in the REU program this summer was being around individuals my age, who shared my passion for science and learning. I've made memories I'll cherish forever, with friends that I'll never forget.”  Olivia, College of St. Rose, Albany, NY (Junior, 2012).


 

Program Updates