Wake Forest Summer Immersion: Biology Research

Biology Research Institute is an overnight pre-college science program for current 9th–12th grade students, approximately ages 14–18. The program is part of Wake Forest University’s Summer Immersion Program and is designed for high school students who want a deeper look at biology research.

The institute focuses on biological research across both micro and macro levels. Students explore how biological systems connect from the smallest organisms to large ecosystems, with topics tied to global change, sustainability, disease biochemistry, floral ecology, plant development, community assembly, and experimental design.

The program is hands-on and academic. Students participate in laboratory experiments, fieldwork, microscopy, data collection, and research presentations. They also interact with experts and leaders in different areas of biology research, including PhD-level researchers and graduate instructors.

This is a strong match for teens who like science, lab work, ecology, medicine, sustainability, research, or environmental questions. It is not a casual nature camp or a general biology review. Students should be ready for a college-style pace, scientific vocabulary, structured days, and serious inquiry. For the right student, it can make biology feel much more alive than a textbook chapter.

Typical Daily Schedule

    8:00 am – Breakfast
    9:00 am – Program Introduction
    9:30 am – Topic: Vector-borne Diseases
    10:00 am – Fieldwork: Sampling Mosquitos
    10:30 am – Lab: Red Blood Cell Morphology
    12:00 pm – Lunch
    12:45 pm – Travel to Fieldwork Site 
    1:15 pm – Microscopy: Mosquito Identification
    3:30 pm – Guest Speaker: Biochemistry of Malaria
    4:10 pm – Team Research Presentation: Sampling Results
    4:30 pm – Debrief and Reflections
    5:30 pm – Dinner
    6:30 pm – Evening Activities
    7:30 pm – Free Time
    9:00 pm – Prepare for Bed
    10:30 pm – Lights Out

*The “A Day in the Life” sample schedule is subject to change.