Applications are now open for talented, science-oriented, Australian high school graduates of 2018 to participate in the Weizmann Institute of Science’s 2019 Dr Bessie F. Lawrence International Summer Science Institute (ISSI), offering a unique opportunity to spend a month in Israel working with Weizmann’s top scientists. The Australian scholarships are funded by the Trawalla Foundation and the Garvan-Weizmann partnership.
You could find yourself working on a strategy to eradicate cancer cells, studying surfaces using scanning tunnelling microscopy, learning about how semiconductors behave, or designing a computer program to simulate neurotransmitter release. The opportunities are vast. This intense program offers the opportunity to taste the realities of research through hands-on experience.
Each year around 80 talented 18 year old high school graduate science students from around the world gather together to spend a month at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot, Israel for the ISSI. This year the program will be from 2-25 July 2019. Applications close 22 March 2019.
The bulk of the costs are covered by scholarships of $10,000 each for the successful applicants. Selection is on a competitive basis and applicants must submit an essay about themselves, along with their academic transcript. An excellent academic record, particularly in science, and aspirations for a career in science and technology, are major criteria in the selection process.
The first three weeks are spent working in campus laboratories. Participating students are assigned in small groups to work on actual, ongoing research projects under the supervision of Weizmann Institute scientists. The work combines the exploration of problems in the fields of biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics and computer sciences, instruction in the use of sophisticated laboratory equipment, and experimental procedures. Upon completion of laboratory work, participants give an oral presentation and submit a written report.
The final week of the program is spent in the Judean Desert and the Negev, where expert guides lead hikes and excursions that acquaint participants with the ecological, geographical, geological, zoological and archaeological characteristics of the region. Tours of Israel are an integral part of the program as they give participants a sense of the beauty of the country and introduce them to the history and diverse culture of Israel. The schedule also allows for free time, social activities, group discussions and more. During the free time participants can enjoy the extensive recreational and library facilities on campus.
Last year Dominic Agius, now at Sydney University, and Milan Leonard, now at the Australian National University the month long adventure. Read their story here.
To apply and for more information contact Dr Kirsten Shteinman Email: Kirsten@weizmann.org.au
