What is the Science Research Mentoring Program?
The Science Research Mentoring Program is an opportunity for NYC high school students to conduct one year of research. It is held by the American Museum of Natural History, and students work together with AMNH scientists. SRMP’s goals are to increase access to science fields and careers for NYC high school students by providing authentic science research opportunities and meaningful mentorship. They believe that having access to research in high school can “improves scholars’ personal growth and increases opportunities for success long term” (amnh.org). SRMP strives to create a supportive community that values each scholar’s unique strengths, challenges, and motivations.
Why should I apply for the Science Research Mentoring Program?
- Learn how to do science research by working on a year-long authentic research project with an AMNH-affiliated scientist
- Earn a stipend ($1,000) upon completion of research and program requirements
- Build a community of peers and mentors who want to help you succeed in your academic goals
- Participate in college and career readiness activities, including one free Kaplan SAT or ACT prep course
- Attend special events at the AMNH and become part of the Museum professional community
What do I do in the Science Research Mentoring Program?
SRMP is primarily based around providing students with an opportunity to do research, however this program provides much more valuable skills/opportunities. SRMP students can learn a wide range of new skills, like working with DNA in the lab, analyzing data from space-based telescopes, reading scientific articles, and learning to code and analyze data in Python, R, and other programming languages Students will primarily work with peers and scientist mentors twice a week throughout the school year (4hrs/week). However, the schedule varies depending on the time of the year (full schedule can be found below). Due to covid-19 SRMP in 2021 will be full online and schedules will vary as covid-19 protocols change
Science Research Mentoring program full year schedule
SRMP Summer Institute: late August, Monday-Friday
- Students must participate in a 3-week summer session. During this session, all students attend a 5-day sleepover experience of fieldwork at Black Rock Forest
One-year mentored research experience: September–June
- Students work in small groups of 2-3 students led by a research scientist. Students work on their projects two afternoons during the week after school, for a minimum of two hours per session, with their mentors and partners at the Museum. The research scientist will set the exact schedule. Students also participate in mandatory monthly advisory sessions, usually held on Fridays, where they learn about science professions, practice presentation skills, and attend lectures from invited speakers
SRMP Colloquium: Early June
- SRMP students present a scientific poster and oral presentation about their research in an annual SRMP Symposium. We invite parents, teachers, friends, mentors, and Museum staff to attend this event.
Am I eligible?
To be eligible for SRMP you must meet the following criteria
- you must be in the 10th or 11th grade and passing your classes for the last 3 or more semesters
- Must complete a After School Program class at AMNH in the 2019–2020 academic year
- Must complete a Saltz Internship in Science Communication at AMNH in the 2019–2020 academic year
Attend one of the following high schools or partner programs:
- Harlem Education Action Fund
- Opportunity Network
- Washington Heights Expeditionary Learning School
- Bronx Center for Science and Mathematics
- Eagle Academy for Young Men (Harlem and Bronx)
- KIPP STAR College Prep Charter School
- Sunset Park High School
- St. Jean Baptiste
- Uncommon Prep
- Young Women Leadership Academy (Harlem)
What kind of students does SRMP look for?
SRMP encourages students who self-identify as Black, Latinx, Indigenous, and/or first-generation college bound to apply. They look for have a passion for learning and discovery, are new to science research and want to build their skills. They are also looking for committed students who can work well with others.
How do I apply
Currently applications are closed but they open in January 2021. The application can be found here.
