When is it? How do I apply?
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The six-week programs runs annually, one at the University of Alberta, one at the University of Calgary, and one at the University of Lethbridge.
University of Alberta: July 2 - August 13
University of Lethbridge: July 4 - August 15
University of Calgary: July 3 - August 14
Application form can be found here.
What do students do in the HYRS Program?
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- hands-on work with AHFMR-funded (called Heritage) researchers in wet or dry laboratories at the U of A, U of C or U of L.
- work with other members of researcher's team
- work on possible projects in:
- cardiology
- neurology
- cell biology
- genetics
- epidemiology
- bioengineering
- work in areas on the cutting edge of science not yet in textbooks
Is HYRS only laboratory research?
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HYRS is much more!
- guest speakers talk about their careers in research.
- a major field trip to a research facility or company
- an afternoon open house
- Teachers' Day where each student's science teacher(s) joins them for a full day on campus.
- explore an Alberta university campus
- meet other Alberta students with similar interests
What qualifications do students need?
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- at least an 85% standing in grade 11 math and sciences
- an essay demonstrating interest in biomedical and health research
- reference forms completed by science teachers
- successful applicants must give a presentation about their HYRS experiences to their high school science class after their HYRS experience
- a willingness to commit to a continuous six-week period in the summer
How much does HYRS cost?
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There is no charge to HYRS students.
- HYRS students will be paid by a $1680 award.
- Alberta students outside Calgary and Edmonton may apply for a limited number of student housing bursaries based on financial need.
- All students will be responsible for meals, travel and entertainment.
When is the deadline for applications?
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Check back for updates and timelines.
What role do science teachers play in HYRS?
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AHFMR depends on science teachers to:
- pass on the news about HYRS to their students
- encourage them to apply
- provide a strong reference--a key part of the adjudication process
- if their student is accepted in HYRS, to participate in a Teachers' Day held during the program. Teacher's Day offers teachers the opportunity to meet with fellow teachers, top biomedical and health researchers, university personnel, and to learn about leading edge research. Participating teachers will receive an honorarium.
- HYRS Applications judged by a committee composed of science teachers from the Science Council of Alberta, the HYRS administrator from each office, and an AHFMR senior staff member.
What is AHFMR?
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Please see our About AHFMR page for details
Do I have to be in Grade 11 to apply?
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Yes.
The HYRS program is focused on students who have just completed grade 11. One of the aims of the HYRS Program is to give Grade 11 students an opportunity to learn about a variety of careers in health research. Grade 11 students who are interested in a career in health research will then have time to think about university requirements in their last year of high school and make the necessary adjustments to their studies. A key responsibility of the HYRS participant is to return to their high school in the fall and do a presentation to a science class on their experiences in the program. This might be difficult for someone who is entering university, nonetheless it is a key responsibility. Finally, the activities in the HYRS program will be focused on the age level of grade 11 students.
Grade 12 students are NOT eligible for this program, but may be interested in AHFMR's Summer Studentships.
When will I know if I've been accepted into HYRS 2008?
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Selections to be made in late May and those who were successful will be notified in early June.
Need more information?
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Contact us for more information.
To read about last year's HYRS program participants, please see the Competition Results.
