Howard Hughes Medical Institute - HHMI

From BeavrWiki

INTRODUCTION: The HHMI program is an excellent way to immerse yourself in and begin your research career. Every summer, about 40-50 students (depending on funding) work under a professor (a mentor) on a certain project. At the end of the summer, they are given the opportunity to present their work to an audience of other HHMI students and professors.

TIMELINE: The program lasts for about 10-11 weeks, but students independently map out their schedule with their mentors. The application process usually begins in early winter term. Students have to submit a one page research proposal and a show of their interest in research. By Mid April to early May, students are notified if they are selected to be in the program. The applications can be found on the HHMI website. Many students also apply for URISC funding.

FINDING A MENTOR: There are several ways one can go about finding a mentor.

• Contact professors. Introduce yourself and learn about their research on the OSU website.
• Talk to your department adviser. He/She may be able to introduce you to some possible mentors.
• Talk to student who have participated before. They may be able to get you in contact with a professor.

PRESENTATIONS The presentations usually last about 15 minutes. The powerpoints and recorded presentations can also be viewed on the HHMI website from the past few years. Students critique each presentation, and 6 awards are presented for two top-presentations, two runner-ups, and two honorable mentions.