CSUN-UCLA Stem Cell Scientist Training Program

The CSUN-UCLA Stem Cell Scientist Training Program is an inter-institutional training program that provides an opportunity for engaged, interested, and successful undergraduate trainees to gain the necessary skills and qualifications to springboard into careers in stem cell research. This program is expected to contribute significantly to the number of students prepared for research careers in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine that span the spectrum, from basic studies to translational approaches.

Program Goals

The program aims to provide undergraduate trainees with the necessary skills and qualifications to pursue careers in stem cell research. The program is designed to contribute to the number of students prepared for research careers in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine.

Program Structure

• Internships at UCLA will focus on a hands-on, practical laboratory-intensive training experience.
  • Interns participate in a week-long intensive hESC training course at Pathways for Stem Cell Science paid for by the grant before the UCLA internship.
  • Interns will train with one of the 50 stem cell research labs headed by UCLA faculty.
  • Interns will participate in stem cell biology research in mentor labs at UCLA an average of 40 hours per week, will attend and participate in weekly stem cell biology-related seminars and journal clubs, and will attend the major annual stem cell symposia at UCLA and CSUN research conferences.
  • Research that Interns perform at UCLA will culminate in a written Senior Thesis.
• Interns will be enrolled at CSUN in special internship courses that will be supported by the Bridges grant for up to $8,000 (for tuition and fees during summer, fall and spring semesters).
• Interns will receive a stipend of $3000 per month during the 12 month UCLA research internship only.
• Travel fellowships to attend the CIRM symposia and a conference of their choice of up to $3000.

Program Details

• 10 available undergraduate internship positions Sept 1 to Aug 31 each year at UCLA.
• CSUN training in cell and stem cell culture begins Summer Session 3 and is paid for by the grant.

Target Participants and Eligibility Requirements

• Highly motivated and culturally diverse undergraduate students at CSUN.
• Prerequisites:
  • The core requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree in biology.
  • These include one year of Biological Principles and Lab, one year of General Chemistry and Lab, one semester of Organic Chemistry and Lab, and one semester of Cell Biology and Lab, and/or Genetics before UCLA internship begins.
  • A 3 unit lecture course can be taken in summer along with Biol 347L, paid for by the grant.
  • Biol 247L Intro to Molecular Biology Research Lab course.
  • Biol 397L Intro to Cell and Stem Cell Culture Lab or 477/L Cell and Tissue Culture and Lab (offered during program in summer and free).
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0.

Program Requirements

• Prerequisite checks.
• 1 year Commitment to the program.
• 12 month full time internship at UCLA.
• Summer Session 3 courses during internship:
  • Biol 347L (3 units, grant pays tuition).
  • Major biology course of your choice (3 units, grant pays tuition).
• Fall and Spring courses during internship:
  • Biol 495C, Biol 476 Topics in Stem Cell Research, Biol 490 Tutorial Studies, Biol 498 Senior Thesis, online Biostats course (grant pays tuition).
• Week-long intensive Stem Cell Techniques training course before UCLA internship begins (grant pays tuition).
• Research Presentations at UCLA and CSUN symposia and CIRM meetings (grant travel funding pays).
• Community Outreach activities during internship.
• Patient Interaction activities during internship.
• Applications will be screened for compliance with eligibility requirements and scored by the admissions committee.
• Highest scoring students will be referred to the project director, Dr. Malone, for final approval.
• Participant selection procedures have been developed to ensure all eligible students have equal opportunity for selection.
• Students will also be required to take the necessary safety training workshops at UCLA before beginning their internships.

California State University Northridge

---

Overview:

California State University Northridge (CSUN) is a public university located in Northridge, California. It is part of the 23-campus California State University system. CSUN offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.

---

Services Offered:

CSUN provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Advising & Tutoring:

Support services to help students navigate their academic journey.

Student Services & Support:

Resources for student well-being, including counseling, health services, and disability support.

Athletics:

Opportunities to participate in intercollegiate sports.

Housing & Dining:

On-campus housing options and dining services.

Health & Wellness:

Programs and resources to promote student health and well-being.

Safety & Security:

Campus security measures to ensure student safety.

University Student Union:

A central hub for student activities, events, and organizations.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

CSUN offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience with numerous opportunities for student engagement. Students can:

Join Clubs & Activities:

Participate in a wide range of student organizations and clubs.

Engage in Community-Engaged Learning:

Gain practical experience through community service and outreach programs.

Study Abroad:

Expand their horizons by studying at international partner institutions.

Attend Events and Activities:

Enjoy a variety of cultural, social, and academic events on campus.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Diverse and Inclusive Community:

CSUN fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from all backgrounds.

Strong Academic Programs:

Offers a wide range of high-quality academic programs across various disciplines.

Affordable Education:

Provides a relatively affordable education compared to other universities.

Location:

Located in the San Fernando Valley, offering easy access to Los Angeles and its surrounding areas.

---

Academic Programs:

CSUN offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various colleges, including:

College of Arts, Media and Communication

College of Business and Economics

College of Education

College of Engineering and Computer Science

College of Health and Human Services

College of Humanities

College of Science and Mathematics

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

---

Other: