Welcome to BEAM Virtual!
At BEAM Virtual, we redefine online learning. Unlike any other online course, our program transcends the boundaries of traditional education. We don't just provide pre-recorded lectures; we offer an immersive journey into the realms of science, technology and medicine. Here, BEAM fellows do not merely absorb information; they engage, reflect, and question critically.
BEAM Virtual Fellows will learn about current research of distinguished faculty at UCI virtually. Some of the past research project topics included:
Biomedical Engineering / Neurology / Micro Manufacturing / Drug Addiction
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Engagement Beyond Boundaries:
BEAM Virtual is more than just a virtual classroom; it's a vibrant community of gifted high school students passionate about exploration and discovery. While pre-recorded lectures lay the foundation, our program thrives on active participation, encouraging BEAM fellows to delve deep into their subjects, collaborate, and challenge the status quo.
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Reflective Learning:
We believe in the power of reflection. In BEAM Virtual, fellows don't just learn facts; they contemplate, analyze, and connect the dots. Through guided exercises and interactive discussions, our fellows develop a profound understanding of their fields, fostering intellectual growth and curiosity.
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Beyond the Curriculum:
In addition to delving into the cutting-edge research of distinguished UCI faculty, BEAM Virtual focuses on holistic skill development:
Collaborative Group Settings:
BEAM Virtual emphasizes collaborative learning. Fellows work together on multidisciplinary projects, honing teamwork, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
Effective Communication:
We believe that ideas gain power through effective communication. Through presentations, debates, and discussions, fellows refine their communication skills, articulating thoughts with clarity and conviction.
Entrepreneurship and Innovation:
BEAM Virtual doesn't just teach; it inspires innovation. Students are encouraged to think like entrepreneurs, fostering creativity and a spirit of innovation that goes beyond the boundaries of traditional education.
Join us at BEAM Virtual, where education is not a passive experience but an exhilarating journey of engagement, reflection, and critical questioning. Unleash your potential, challenge your intellect, and redefine your future with us.
Why BEAM Virtual?
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College - Level Research & Transferable Academic Credits*
Get matched with a faculty-led research team and partake in a college-level research process.
Upon successful completion of the program, earn transferable college credits and make your grade count towards your future undergraduate studies. (*All UCI credit is earned in conjunction with UCI Division of Continuing Education)
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Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Learn the latest cutting-edge technology in the fields of BEAM. Extend your learning and ideas to innovative solutions. Go beyond lab research process and find how science & technology is impacting the real world.
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Get Certified in a Variety of Lab Training
Become certified and equip yourself with lab safety basics, protocols and procedures applicable for the summer and future lab work. (Find topics in the Pre-session description)
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Learn with Intensity
Expect a fully-packed schedule, in which you will learn from various lecturers and speakers, work with research mentors in groups and prepare for your final presentation -- all the while working on your progress-based projects* with GATI mentors to supplement their personal goals.
* i.e. publication prep, business prep, college prep: subject to change
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Layers of Mentorship
Take advantage of high-touch mentorship from research mentors, innovation mentors and GATI mentors. And don't forget to attend the virtual roundtable with the Dean of UCI's Undergraduate Division!
Phases of BEAM Online
PHASE I
6.24-7.21
PHASE II
7.22-8.5
PHASE III
7.22 - 8.31
I. Pre-Session: Online Lab Training / Orientation
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Get certified in any or all of the topics:
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Laboratory Safety Fundamentals
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Bloodborne Pathogens
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Formaldehyde safety
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Hazardous Waste
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Viral Vectors
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Lab Animal Research Basic Training
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Reducing Pain and Distress in Laboratory Mice and Rats
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Working with Mice in Research Settings
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Working with Rats in Research Settings
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Attend Orientation (Date TBD).
II. Main Session
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Learn from lectures about up-to-date research, cutting-edge technology, real-world applications in the interdisciplinary fields of BEAM.
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Learn about a specific research topic that you are matched with. Work with your research project group and conduct research under the guidance of research mentors and faculty.
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Organize research findings and prepare to present with your group.
III. Post Session: Research Paper
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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 mentors and apply summer outcomes towards college and future success.
Sample Day in the
BEAM Virtual Main Session
Note: The flow is not necessarily in order.
Lectures*
Listen to different topics in the fields of BEAM and innovation from professors, industry leaders, and prominent guest speakers.
Office Hours
Schedule and meet with program directors or mentors whenever you need assistance.
Virtual Lab* & Research Session
Break into assigned research project groups. Watch demonstrations of lab experiments and follow lab mentors' instructions.
Independent / Group Work
Complete your group or individual assignments. Prepare for the final presentation.
Innovation Session
Meet your innovation mentor with your project group. Go through a step-by-step process of starting a venture.
Progress-Based Project (PBP)
Make your experience relevant to your personal goals. Join a PBP to help you with publication, business launch or college prep.
* live or pre-recorded
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.
Tuition & Scholarship
Regular Program (Pre-Session + Main Session) Fees: $4,495 (2 college credits*)
Comprehensive Program (Pre-Session + Main session + Post-Session) Fees: $6,995 (4 college credits*)
*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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Students who demonstrate superior academic achievements and outstanding talents in research and innovation