MANASSAS, Va.—-If you are a high school or college student interested in exploring the cutting edge of science and medicine, gaining hands-on experience with state-of-the-art technologies in a university research laboratory, and mentoring with high-profile scientists, apply now for the 2008 Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program at George Mason University.

Offered at the university’s Prince William Campus in Manassas, the program is in its second year. Application deadline is March 3.

The program begins June 23 with orientation and laboratory safety training and concludes Aug. 18 with a poster session and reception. Students are required to participate Mondays through Fridays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Open to rising high school juniors and seniors and college students, 20 aspiring scientists will be accepted into this highly competitive program. Interested students must be 15-years-old as of June 23, submit an application form and a letter of recommendation, and participate in a personal interview. Successful candidates will be notified of acceptance by June 2.

Students will work alongside Mason scientists on timely projects related to proteomic and genomic analysis of cancer and other diseases, antimicrobial drug design, developmental neurobiology, nanotechnology and environmental science. Opportunities may exist for their work to be published in scientific journals or presented at professional conferences. In addition, students will learn about the college application process and career preparation, and meet scientists from varying disciplines during career day seminars.

For additional information, contact Amy VanMeter, program coordinator, at 703-993-8303 or avanmete@gmu.edu, or visit the web site at http://mason.gmu.edu/~avanmete.

George Mason University, located in the heart of Northern Virginia’s technology corridor near Washington, D.C., is an innovative, entrepreneurial institution with national distinction in a range of academic fields. With strong undergraduate and graduate degree programs in engineering, information technology, biotechnology and health care, Mason prepares its students to succeed in the work force and meet the needs of the region and the world. Mason professors conduct groundbreaking research in areas such as cancer, climate change, information technology and the biosciences, and Mason’s Center for the Arts brings world-renowned artists, musicians and actors to its stage. Its School of Law is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top 35 law schools in the United States.