The Southwest Association for Education in Biomedical Research sponsors an essay contest each year for high school students. Winners in the Tucson and Phoenix metro areas receive a paid summer internship in one of the following institutions: Arizona State University, Barrow Neurological Institute at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Harrington Arthritis Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Sun Health Research Institute, or University of Arizona. Internships last anywhere from six to ten weeks. Winners from high schools in the state who cannot work in the metro areas receive a cash award of $150.
The topic for this year’s contest is: “How has biomedical research using animals benefited a pet, you, or someone you know?” Entries are due March 17, 2006.
The purpose of the contest is to identify and recognize students who demonstrate superior understanding of the scientific process used in research, the importance of the use of animals in the medical and biological sciences, and who can artfully communicate that understanding in writing. All entries are judged on the basis of scientific accuracy, logic, originality, creativity, command of the English language, understanding of the scientific process, and importance of the use of animals in research.
All high school students are eligible if they will be at least 16 years of age by the start of the summer internship.