University-Level STEM Research & Innovation
At the heart of Southern California’s growing centers of tech, UCI x GATI offers an enriching experience for gifted high school students to pursue their passion and interests in the ever-expanding fields of Biology, Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, and Medicine (BEAM). Students will have the chance to learn about research in state-of-the-art facilities under the tutelage of distinguished faculty at UCI. With a diverse and multidisciplinary set of research labs, students will be immersed in fields including, but not limited to:
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Mechanical / Chemical Engineering
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Aerospace Engineering
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Anatomy
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Neurology
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Physics
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Microbiology
In addition to developments and growth in research at the university level, students will participate in the innovative side of research. Students will be able to connect the dots and see the research process holistically by further developing:
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Skills in collaborative group settings
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Communication skills
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Critical thinking skill
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Entrepreneurship / Innovation
* Please note that all BEAM fellows will engage in both Research and Innovation (instead of separate tracks).
Why BEAM?
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High-Impact Learning Experience
Experience rich resources and facilities at UCI, a leading research university in the U.S.
Intensive schedule at BEAM allows fellows to be immersed in research and innovation experiences.
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Lab Experience
Gain hands-on experience in advanced research methodologies. Under the guidance of experienced mentors and faculty, learn the fundamental techniques and process essential for cutting-edge bioengineering, and medical research. Present your research lab outcomes to panels of experts at the end of the program.
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Innovation
Extend your learning and ideas to innovative solutions. Go beyond lab research process and find how science and technology is impacting the real world.
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High-Touch Mentorship
Get matched with UCI faculty-led research teams, work with ANTrepreneur (entrepreneurship) mentors, and mingle with the Visioneers who serve as invaluable role models, bridging the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world application.
Sessions of BEAM
PRE
6/10 - 7/6
MAIN
7/7 - 7/20
POST
7/21 - 8/31
Preliminary Scoping & Training: Online (Self-Paced)
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Take lab training courses to be certified to handle advanced lab tools and equipment for future use (i.e. Laboratory Safety Fundamentals, Bloodborne Pathogens, Formaldehyde Safety, Hazardous Waste, Viral Vectors, Lab Animal Research Basic Training, Reducing Pain and Distress in Laboratory Mice and Rats, Working with Mice in Research Settings, Working with Rats in Research Settings)
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Do pre-work for Innovation / Entrepreneurship workshops
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Complete pre-requisite readings for your matched/assigned research project / lab
Residential Research & Entrepreneurship: On Campus
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Get matched with UCI research faculty and team
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Learn about university-level research and get exposure to the most innovative research topics
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Interact with professionals from innovative companies and labs
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Create/launch an innovative business, organization, or project that culminates interests and talents
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Organize research experience and prepare to present or publish
Comprehensive Publication Coaching: Online
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Comprehensive Program Fellows only
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Complete written drafts under the guidance of publication mentors
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Communicate with advisors and apply summer outcomes towards college and future success
Sample Day in the Life of BEAM Residential Fellow
Morning Classes
Lessons for Advanced HS Students
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College-level workshops and lectures in the fields of Bio Engineering AI and Medicine
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Soft skills workshop – learn influencing and pitching skills
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Exposure to cutting-edge bio, engineering, AI and medical innovation that is shaking the world
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Learning experience with professors and leading experts
Afternoon Research
Research & Entrepreneruship
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University-level research projects at labs
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Access to UCI campus resources and library
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Innovation workshops at ANTrepreneur Center
Evening Innovation
Future Relevant Skills & Individual Projects
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Research application to innovative solutions and technology.
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Connect research and experience to College-readiness through capstone projects.
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Build long-lasting relationships with advisors and other gifted and talented students from around the globe.
BEAM Featured Faculty
Yama Akbari
Assistant Professor of Neurology and Neurological Surgery
Dr. Akbari's research revolves around investigating mechanisms underlying consciousness, coma, and global stroke with a focus on cardiac arrest (CA) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). His lab is the first cardiac arrest and resuscitation lab at UC Irvine, incorporating a combination of basic science, translational, and clinical research aspects.
David Reinkensmeyer
Professor at the Anatomy and Neurobiology & Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Dr. Reinkensmeyer's research activities focus on movement control, neuro-rehabilitation and robotics. One of his group's objectives is to develop physically interacting, mechatronic devices ("rehabilitators") to help the nervous system recover movement ability after neurologic injuries such as stroke or spinal cord injury. His group also is working to understand the adaptive control processes that enable motor learning throughout the life span.
Lawrence Kulinsky
Project Scientist at Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Dr. Kulinsky is the Scientific Chair of the International Institution on Micro and Nano Manufacturing. He has authored more than 70 book chapter and other peer-reviewed publications as well as 16 patents and invention disclosures. His research focuses on the areas of micro- and nano fabrications, electro-active polymers, micro- and nano-fluidics, drug delivery systems, biosensor platforms, and electronic devices.
Zuzanna Siwy
Professor of Physics & Astronomy
Professor Siwy’s research is in the field of experimental biophysics and condensed matter physics. Her current focus is using synthetic nanopores as templates for biomimetic channels as well as ionic diodes and ionic transistors. She is interested in new physical and chemical phenomena accompanying ionic and molecular transport at the nano-and microscales.
Tuition & Scholarship
Comprehensive Program Fees* (4 college credits** + Post Session) : $9,995
Residential Program Fees* (2 college credits**) : $6,995
* Fees include all instructional materials, room & board and BEAM-arranged activities.
**All UCI credit is earned in conjunction with UCI Division of Continuing Education.
Scholarships Available for:
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California residents
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Outstanding applicants that demonstrate superior academic achievements
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GATI alumni