The UMass Advanced Placement Biology Labs program brings high school science students and their teachers to UMass Medical School, where they engage in hands-on learning experiences in state-of-the-art laboratories. On Monday, Nov. 26, the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences hosted a recognition dinner for the volunteers who have contributed their time and facilities—and their enthusiasm for scientific inquiry—to the budding young scientists. Dozens of GSBS faculty, postdoctoral fellows, research associates and graduate students gathered with high school advanced placement teachers to celebrate their successful collaborations.
Chancellor Michael F. Collins was on hand to welcome the honorees, while program co-founder Stephen Doxsey, PhD, professor of molecular medicine, biochemistry & molecular pharmacology and cell & developmental biology, served as master of ceremonies. Dr. Doxsey launched the AP Bio Labs Program in 1999 along with Jane Raabis, chair of the Department of Science and AP biology teacher at Worcester’s North High School.
“Many faculty members have a story of an early mentor who was instrumental in getting them excited about a career in science, myself included,” said Doxsey. “They feel strongly about educating young kids. The idea is to get them interested in science as early as possible.”
“The opportunity for our students to get to perform experiments in real laboratories using real equipment is a selling point for the AP course,” said Raabis. “They look forward to it, remember it and are impressed by it.”
Related links:
Worcester-area students get hands-on lab experience
UMass Labs for Worcester Area High Schools
