Aspiring biologists and naturalists will explore the animal life of the southern Appalachians through discussions, workshops, hands-on lab experiments, and field trips. Identify local species by searching for salamanders in a private reserve, snorkeling in clear mountain streams, and studying specimens under microscopes. A special evening field trip will offer the opportunity to observe the rare synchronous and blue-ghost fireflies at a private reserve. Learn to use zoological tools such as aquatic and insect nets, binoculars, and dissecting and compound microscopes. Field trips will focus on observing and identifying vertebrate wildlife across Western North Carolina's diverse habitats. Through readings and discussions, we'll also tackle questions like which species of wolves once roamed these mountains.

A one-week, full-day forensics program where students become crime scene investigators, performing medical examinations, collecting and analyzing evidence, and interviewing witnesses. Learn lab techniques including DNA extraction, fingerprinting, cellular microscopy, PCR, gel electrophoresis, ELISA, and hair and fiber analysis. Program includes MEDchats with healthcare and research professionals to explore careers.

A week-long investigation into human body systems for high school students considering medical careers. Activities include practicing suture techniques, heart dissection, and diagnosing illness using electrophoresis, microscopy, and culture. Information about medical careers included.

One-week STEM program that introduces high school students to the dynamic field of biomedical engineering. Participants will gain exposure to essential laboratory techniques and core research skills through interactive, hands-on activities. The program also offers opportunities to explore the rapidly growing biomedical industry through site visits, seminars, and presentations led by industry professionals. Open to rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Applicants must have completed one year of biology and demonstrate an interest in mathematics, engineering, or the health and life sciences.

Week-long adventure into the life of a crime scene analyst for middle school students. Learn to collect and analyze fingerprints from simulated crime scenes, perform blood type analysis, and solve mysteries using DNA fingerprinting and other biotechnology techniques.

A one-week, full-day forensics program where students become crime scene investigators, performing medical examinations, collecting and analyzing evidence, and interviewing witnesses. Learn lab techniques including DNA extraction, fingerprinting, cellular microscopy, PCR, gel electrophoresis, ELISA, and hair and fiber analysis. Program includes MEDchats with healthcare and research professionals to explore careers.

One-week STEM program that introduces high school students to the dynamic field of biomedical engineering. Participants will gain exposure to essential laboratory techniques and core research skills through interactive, hands-on activities. The program also offers opportunities to explore the rapidly growing biomedical industry through site visits, seminars, and presentations led by industry professionals. This session includes on-campus housing option for an additional $500 fee. Open to rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Applicants must have completed one year of biology and demonstrate an interest in mathematics, engineering, or the health and life sciences.

A one-week, full-day forensics program where students become crime scene investigators, performing medical examinations, collecting and analyzing evidence, and interviewing witnesses. Learn lab techniques including DNA extraction, fingerprinting, cellular microscopy, PCR, gel electrophoresis, ELISA, and hair and fiber analysis. Program includes MEDchats with healthcare and research professionals to explore careers.

One-week STEM program that introduces high school students to the dynamic field of biomedical engineering. Participants will gain exposure to essential laboratory techniques and core research skills through interactive, hands-on activities. The program also offers opportunities to explore the rapidly growing biomedical industry through site visits, seminars, and presentations led by industry professionals. Open to rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Applicants must have completed one year of biology and demonstrate an interest in mathematics, engineering, or the health and life sciences.

A one-week, full-day forensics program where students become crime scene investigators, performing medical examinations, collecting and analyzing evidence, and interviewing witnesses. Learn lab techniques including DNA extraction, fingerprinting, cellular microscopy, PCR, gel electrophoresis, ELISA, and hair and fiber analysis. Program includes MEDchats with healthcare and research professionals to explore careers.