For Immediate Release
June 6, 2005

Roswell Park Celebrates 53 Years of Training Future Scientists

BUFFALO, NY – For the 53rd consecutive year, Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) will offer a unique summer learning experience to young scientists and medical students. “The Research Participation Program in Science for Young Scholars,” is the longest, continuously running program of its kind in the United States.

On June 26, 67 medical, college and high school students from 10 states and Canada will begin working under the supervision of RPCI scientists and clinicians. Their research projects will range from the basic science of cancer to studies on cancer prevention, detection and treatment. The program will conclude the week of August 8, when students will report their results in a poster session and oral presentation. 

Students will be exposed to an atmosphere of intensive research in which they can develop skills, habits and attitudes useful in scientific investigations and will have the opportunity to test their ability to work independently in an innovative way.

 “Talented young scientists from all over the US and Canada have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in Roswell Park laboratories working along with leading cancer researchers, thus providing students with a window into what a career in science and medicine could be like,” said Arthur Michalek, PhD, Dean and Chair of the Department of Educational Affairs. “The program support and encourage the next generation of scientists and physicians, and is an invaluable investment in the future which will help to ensure that some of the brightest, most creative young people enter fields of science, thus sustaining continued advances in cancer research and treatment.”

The Program, established in 1953, is supported by grants from the National Science Foundation, the National Cancer Institute, and the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation. To participate, high school students must exhibit high achievement and commitment to the sciences, and college and medical students must have earned honors, equivalent grade point averages and be on a career path in biomedical sciences.

Roswell Park Cancer Institute, founded in 1898, is the nation’s first cancer research, treatment and education center and is the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in Upstate New York. RPCI is a member of the prestigious National Comprehensive Cancer Network, an alliance of the nation’s leading cancer centers. For more information, visit the RPCI website at www.roswellpark.org, call 1-877-ASK-RPCI (1-877-275-7724) or e-mail askrpci@roswellpark.org.

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