YOUNG SCIENTIST PROGRAM
Young Scientist Program
The Hormel Institute currently partners with Austin Public Schools to offer 6–8 grade students at IJ Holton Intermediate School and Ellis Middle School the opportunity to learn about biomedical research topics through hands-on activities and presentations led by scientists at The Hormel Institute.
The program is designed to create a student-to-scientist pipeline, inspiring and cultivating the next generation of innovators and research leaders. Students are placed in various research laboratories at The Hormel Institute, where they use the scientific method as they work with a diverse group of scientist mentors through observation and hands-on activities. These activities have included things like:
- Making liquid nitrogen ice cream
- Examining various types of cells
- Learning pipetting techniques
- Working with different types of microscopes
- Isolating RNA from lung cells
- Gamifying a health and nutrition app
The Young Scientist Program is possible thanks to a generous donation made by Paul and Joanne Worlein and the establishment of The Hormel Institute’s Education Fund. You can help contribute to other important STEM education initiatives at The Hormel Institute by donating today to our Education Fund.
Who is eligible for the Young Scientist Program? How can I apply?
All Austin Public School students in grades 6–8 who are curious about science are encouraged to apply!
To participate in the Young Scientist Program, students must submit an application and supply a reference, just like they might when applying for a job or internship later on. Find more information about applying here when the next application period opens.
We are working to expand the Young Scientist Program! To learn more about how your school or organization could take part, contact hi_coe@umn.edu.
Program at a glance
| 6-8 grade Austin Public Schools students eligible to apply |
| Accepted students participate at no cost |
| Regular visits to The Hormel Institute from November to May |
| Hands-on learning experiences led by The Hormel Institute scientists |
| Opportunities for students to work on own research experiments |
| Open to all students who are curious about science |
| See firsthand how many ways there are to be a scientist—and how many areas are open for research and discovery |