The JJ Vance Memorial Summer Internship is an excellent opportunity for high school juniors in the Miami and Broward areas who are passionate about biological and computational sciences. Hosted at the John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics (HIHG), this rigorous 8-week program immerses students in cutting-edge research, providing them with the opportunity to work closely with experienced scientists and researchers.

Interns are paired with a mentor — who may be a staff member, post-doctoral student, or faculty member — and collaborate on projects focused on human genetics. The internship is designed to develop students’ research and presentation skills, with a strong emphasis on exploring the genetic factors that contribute to human diseases. Through this experience, students gain a deeper understanding of the critical role genetics plays in disease diagnosis, intervention, and prevention.

Throughout the program, interns attend seminars and workshops that enhance their understanding of genomics and research methodologies. The internship culminates in a final presentation where students showcase their research findings, providing them with valuable experience in scientific communication.