High School Scientists Conduct Research in Kean U Program

From Kean University:

UNION, NJ – Thirty-two high school students from New Jersey and New York City conducted real-world research this summer at The New Jersey Center for Science, Technology & Mathematics (NJCSTM) at Kean University as part of the Sanofi-sponsored Group Summer Scholars Research Program (GSSRP). The six-week program is aimed at attracting and developing talented students who are interested in pursuing a science, technology or mathematics (STEM) education.

“The need for more students in the STEM fields and for greater diversity within the STEM professions is well known, and this program is doing something about it,” said Keith Bostian, Ph.D., dean of NJCSTM. “With Sanofi’s support, we expose the students to the excitement of research and the possibilities for them in the scientific field.”

Working with Kean faculty and graduate student mentors in small groups, the students pursued scientific advancements in six research streams: Astrophysics, Cancer Biology, Analytical Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Bioinformatics and Computational Mathematics. About one-third of the summer scholars received full or partial scholarships from the Sanofi Foundation for North America.

The students worked in NJCSTM’s state-of-the art labs and facilities on Morris Avenue.
“I was undecided, but working with Kean University professors in these labs has helped me to decide to come to Kean to study bio-tech in the fall,” said Antoinette Antonucci from Roselle Park.

Working in various research streams, participants explored planetary bodies revolving around other stars; drugs to prevent the spread of cancer cells; the nutritional elements of chocolate; brain tumor formation and reproduction; DNA analysis and its application to infectious diseases; and the mathematical basis of sound creation from musical instruments and spoken words.

“What students are getting is a glimpse of the future in the STEM professions,” said Marshall Hayes, Ph.D., lecturer in NJCSTM. “Many of us on the staff did not have this opportunity when we were in high school. It makes me hopeful about the future of all STEM professions,” he added.

Each group contributed to scientific understanding and got first-hand experience in how a STEM degree can help solve the complex challenges facing our world.

“The GSSRP program gave me confidence. I learned the magic of research.” said Leiby Deutsch, one of last year’s student researchers who returned this year as an assistant.

For more information about the New Jersey Center for Science, Technology and Mathematics and the Group Summer Scholars Research Program, visit www.kean.edu or e-mail njcste@kean.edu.

Photo courtesy of Kean University: Thirty-two high school students from New Jersey and New York City conducted real-world research at The New Jersey Center for Science, Technology & Mathematics (NJCSTM) at Kean University as part of the Sanofi-sponsored Group Summer Scholars Research Program.