Neuroscience High School Scholars Program

UCLA Neuroscience High School Scholars Program

Who are we?

The UCLA Neuroscience High School Scholars Program supports high school students in exploring careers in neuroscience, with a special emphasis on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). We prioritize outreach to public, inner-city high schools where students often have limited access to neuroscience coursework, laboratory experiences, or career guidance. We provide education, research experiences, community awareness activities, outreach, prevention and treatment information, and mentorship to foster student learning and career development.

Why is this important?

The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that nearly seven million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease, and this number is projected to increase to nearly 13 million by 2050. In addition, the health and long-term care costs for people living with dementia are projected to reach $360 billion in 2024 and nearly $1 trillion in 2050. As the population ages, ADRD places a growing burden on individuals, families, and healthcare systems. Addressing this challenge requires a workforce equipped with knowledge and skills to advance research, improve health, and expand quality services across communities. Early exposure to neuroscience builds critical thinking, data literacy, and ethical decision-making skills, while mentorship helps clarify academic and career goals. By expanding access to comprehensive learning and brain-health education, the program creates a stronger pipeline into neuroscience, fueling research progress and better outcomes for patients and caregivers.

Program Opportunities

UCLA Neuroscience High School Grand Rounds (monthly virtual seminars)

  • The UCLA Neuroscience High School Grand Rounds is an introduction to neuroscience through an interactive, case-based learning program where students engage in real-world clinical scenarios and explore key neuroscience topics. Students may lead seminars, participate in collaborative discussions, and share their own research projects, fostering critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the brain in both scientific and social contexts.
  • Seminars occur on the last Thursday of each month at 6 pm.
  • Grand Rounds Schedule 2025-2026: 09/25, 10/30, 11/20, 01/29, 02/26, 03/26, 04/30, 05/28
  • High school students in the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades are welcome to attend.
  • Email us at unhssp@mednet.ucla.edu to receive a Zoom invite.

 

High School Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness and Research Club

  • Are you a student interested in starting an Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Club at your high school? Join our student network that brings together high school students from across the region who are passionate about raising awareness, promoting education, and supporting research efforts related to Alzheimer’s disease and Related Dementias (ADRD).
  • We host virtual meetings on the third Thursday of every month, providing a collaborative space where students can share ideas, discuss outreach strategies, brainstorm educational events, and learn from one another’s experiences. This is a great opportunity to connect with like-minded peers, gain inspiration, and build a supportive community dedicated to making a difference.
  • Please note that we do not manage, run, or establish individual high school clubs. Instead, we serve as a resource hub, offering a platform where students from different high schools can exchange ideas, access materials, and develop leadership skills as they create and grow their own Alzheimer’s awareness initiatives.
  • Whether you're just beginning to plan your club or already leading one at your school, we welcome you to join our network.
  • We meet virtually on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 6 pm.
  • Alzheimer’s Awareness Club Schedule 2025-2026: 09/18, 10/16, 11/13, 01/15, 02/19, 03/19, 04/16
  • High school students in the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades are welcome to attend.
  • Email us at unhssp@mednet.ucla.edu to receive a Zoom invite.

 

UCLA Neuroscience High School Scholars Summer Program

The UCLA Neuroscience High School Summer Program is an introduction to the fascinating world of the brain and nervous system. Designed for high school students with an interest in science, medicine, or psychology, this program offers a chance to explore neuroscience through a mix of interactive and hands-on experiences.

The 6-week program will expose students to various neuroscience topics related to Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The program consists of three structured days per week, with three-hour sessions each day, allowing students to actively engage in learning, discussion, and collaborative activities.

Throughout the program, students will take part in:

  • Live seminars on key neuroscience topics.
  • Conversations with guest speakers from diverse backgrounds in medicine and research.
  • Neurology Grand Rounds, where students observe presentations from clinicians and researchers on current topics in neurology
  • A journal club where students critically analyze current neuroscience literature
  • Virtual lab activities that introduce important research tools and methods
  • A final research project that allows students to investigate a topic of interest and present their findings

This program is designed to spark curiosity, build knowledge, and connect you with others who share your interests. We also hope to inspire you to pursue a career in neuroscience.

  • The program will take place from June 15 to July 23, 2026, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.
  • Students must attend all virtual sessions.
  • Rising Juniors and seniors only are invited to apply.
  • Program fee: $0
  • Application available: December 8, 2025
  • Application deadline: February 9, 2026 (There will be no extensions)
  • Transcripts and letters of recommendation are not required
  • Virtual interviews: April 13 to April 17, 2026
  • Final decisions: April 24, 2026
  • Tips to prepare for the application (prepare responses for the following questions):
    • Why are you interested in neuroscience? (350-word limit)
    • Write a brief autobiography that captures your journey, passions, and defining moments. As part of your story, reveal something about yourself that often goes unnoticed, whether it’s a skill, personal value, or a unique life experience, that shapes how you see the world and approach learning neuroscience. (350-word limit)
  • Please note: this program is intended as an introductory experience.

If you have questions about the virtual summer neuroscience program, please email us at unhssp@mednet.ucla.edu.

General Program Requirements: please note specific requirements for each program.

  • Must be a current student enrolled in high school.
  • Students who are considering a career in neuroscience.
  • Students who are mature, eager, and motivated to learn.

Questions?

Please email us at unhssp@mednet.ucla.edu.