Emerging Leaders in STEM Biotechnology Program

Students,

Are you ready to explore the “Biotech Revolution” and gain the skills needed to solve some of the world’s biggest challenges?
We are excited to invite you to apply for the 2026 Emerging Leaders in STEM program hosted at Sinclair Community College in Dayton, Ohio!

This free program is a unique opportunity for high school and college aged students (ages 14-22) to dive into the high-demand fields of biotechnology and biomanufacturing, gain professional and technical lab skills, and gain access to exclusive networking opportunities along the way. Whether you are interested in curing diseases or developing sustainable materials to save the planet, this program will help you find your path.

Why should you apply?

Hands-on Skills: Learn advanced laboratory techniques like PCR, CRISPR, and Electrophoresis—the same tools used by professional scientists. You will also grow your STEM professional skills necessary for success in your future career, like collaboration and critical thinking skills.

Career Mentoring: Connect with STEM professionals from industry, academia, and the Department of Defense (DoD) to learn about diverse career pathways. Additionally, college students will mentor high school student participants throughout the program, developing their own leadership and communication skills.

Earn While You Learn: College and High School participants earn a stipend and a certificate of completion to enhance their college or job resumes.*

Real-World Experience: The program includes a field trip tour of a local biotech workplace, where you can see science in action.

*Stipend amounts differ between student and mentor participants due to commitment and participation expectations.
Program Timeline:

This program has two participation components:

90-minute Virtual Career Workshops: Hosted virtually on select Saturdays from April 25th - June 13th. (See the program application for specific dates)

Regional In-Person Lab Intensive: Hosted for Dayton Emerging Leaders Participants at Sinclair Community College from July 6th - July 10th.

Students that should apply for this opportunity are:

Biology/biotechnology interested high school students that have at least completed their 9th grade year and a year-long high school biology course

Biology/biotechnology degree seeking college students that have at least completed general biology I & II courses and are interested in mentoring during the program

Between the ages of 14 and 22

Ready to Apply? Check out the attached flyer for more details and scan the QR code on the flyer or visit https://www.learningundefeated.org/emerging-leaders-in-stem/ to learn more and apply!

Applicants will be notified around March 20th of their acceptance and applications for this program will close about 2 weeks before Virtual Career Workshops start. Don’t delay!

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Benedetta Naglieri (benedetta@learningundefeated.org) or Brianna Reynolds-Aldridge (brianna.reynolds@sinclair.edu).

We look forward to seeing you this spring!