During the Emerging Leaders laboratory intensive, high school students are paired with a college-age mentor to explore more advanced topics.
Coming to Maryland, Texas, North Carolina and Ohio!
Emerging Leaders in Biotechnology is a fast-paced, hands-on accelerated 30-hour biotechnology course that introduces high school and college students to high-demand STEM careers.
The 2026 program includes five virtual events during the spring and a one-week in-person laboratory session over the summer. The in-person laboratory sessions will take place in the following locations:
A new and meaningful component of the program this year is the DSEC Alumni Network — a space to connect students, mentors, speakers, and volunteers. This community will provide ongoing access to DoD STEM resources, career opportunities, and professional networking beyond the summer program.
Text LEADERS to 1-833-272-7159 to join our text list, and we will notify you when registration is open!
We’re seeking passionate instructors to help lead our Emerging Leaders in Biotechnology summer labs — a free, one-week program introducing high school and college students to advanced lab techniques, career pathways, and real-world problem-solving in biotechnology.
Certified biology or biotechnology teachers at the high school or community college level, employed within the county where a lab session is held.
Complete the instructor interest form below. Selected candidates will be contacted in January 2026.
Participants dive into synthetic biology, CRISPR, biomarkers, and gene editing — using custom-designed science kits and real lab equipment. Alumni have landed jobs at the NIH, cancer research centers, and beyond.
Visit laboratory facilities, build career readiness and networking skills, and develop friendships with like-minded young scientists who will support their journey in STEM. Alumni join a welcoming network of 400 + students and early career professionals.
Graduates walk away with a certificate, a stipend, and hands-on experience that looks great on a résumé. More importantly, you’ll gain the technical and professional skills that make you truly internship-ready — prepared to step into real lab environments with confidence.