
Dr. Zuñiga
SDSU Assistant Professor of Biology (Computational Bio)
"It is motivating to see how young scientists are taking the lead to train the new generation of undergraduate scholars. The program was excellent with relevant research topics."

Dr. Nguyen
UCSD Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering
"I am pleased to participate in the Stemmed program to mentor rising high-school students. The program provides much-needed opportunities for the students to learn about the research process and participate in research projects. I look forward to mentoring the students to learn about engineering focused careers."

Dr. Chun
UCSF Assistant Professor in Bio-E and Therapeutic Sciences
"The program has been a wonderful experience—the students in the program showed great initiative and made meaningful contributions to their research projects. I look forward to supporting it again!"

A Quick Video!
Roots In Research
Are you a high school student, whether a freshman or senior, looking to gain real research experience?
Introducing the Fall Roots in Research Program by StemMed Students, a student-led non-profit committed to empowering underserved high school students (low-income, students of color, LGBTQ+, and other underrepresented groups) with meaningful STEM opportunities.
🌟 What is the Program?
This is a 6-week, fully virtual research experience designed for underserved high school students.
With only 36 spots available, early applications are highly encouraged!
Top performing teams will earn the opportunity to intern in a real research lab.
🔬 How It Works:
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You'll be matched with a STEM professor based on your interests.
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Work in a team of 3 to create a research symposium poster under your mentor's guidance.
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Present your final poster to a panel of professors in the last session.
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Exceptional teams will be selected for internships in the professors' research labs.
🗓 Program Details:
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Runs from October 5 to November 9
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Meets Sundays, 12–2 PM PST, once a week for 6 weeks
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You'll also work with your team outside of sessions on weekly assignments
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Support and mentorship provided by both team leads and professors
Please do NOT apply if you already have prior research experience, as this program is designed to prioritize students who have not yet had the opportunity.

Introduction to Hypothesis
Overview of scientific method and what makes a strong hypothesis. Hands-on group activity to form and evaluate research questions with break out sessions and live feedback.
Lecture Topics
Intro to Research & Literature Review
Understanding literature review and how to do them accurately and effectively. Learning to use tools like Google scholar, DOI citation, review hypotheses, and begin drafting research on said hypothesis, including methodology. This meeting is expected to extend beyond the standard 2 hour meeting length.
Lecture Topics
Methods and Impact
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Lecture Topics
Professor Quick Chat
Check your presentations and background research by asking your assigned professor mentors feedback in real time. Ask your professors any questions still boggling your mind.
Lecture Topics
Presentation skills & Mock Symposium
Dive into symposium-style presentations with effective communication and proper language. Plan speaking roles and finalize presentations. Practice presenting in front of Branch leads before the final presentation. Live feedback and final adjustments before concluding the program.
Lecture Topics
Final Symposium w/ Professionals
Present your final research project with your team members and gain the chance to become a research intern at one of their labs!
Lecture Topics
Calendar
October 5th - November 2nd
Meetings EVERY Sunday
@ 12pm-2pm PST
Meeting 1
Hypothesis & Onboarding
October 5th
12pm-2pm PST
Meeting 2
Research & Literature Review
October 12th
12pm-2pm PST
Meeting 3
Methods & Impact
October 19th
12pm-2pm PST
Meeting 5
Mock Symposium & Presentation Skills
Nov 2nd
12pm-2pm PST
Meeting 4
Professor Quick Chat
October 26th
12pm-2pm PST
Meeting 6
Final Symposium
Nov 9th
12pm-2pm PST
Previous Professors



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Roots In Research Participants

Alejandra Ortega
"This program gives students valuable exposure to research and how projects work, an opportunity many don’t typically get. Its structure helped me reach my goals and can benefit many others too."

Kwame Yeboah
"This program was a very enlightening experience into the world of research and has definitely been a stepping stone for my research projects, would absolutely recommend!"

Kelven Adu Yeboah
"I would recommend this program to students new to STEM or research. It builds a strong foundation by teaching skills like research basics, symposium planning, and presenting."

Mary Henry
"I’d recommend this program because it’s free, flexible, and supportive. Team leads were available, and it was a great way to connect with professors, peers, and dive into research."
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