The Irene & Eric Simon Brain Research Foundation is celebrating its 20th anniversary and is excited to announce the resumption of its summer fellowship in neuroscience. The fellowship provides motivated undergraduate, graduate, and medical students with the opportunity to work in top-notch labs under esteemed neuroscientists for an intensive eight-week program. Apply now!
The Irene & Eric Simon Brain Research Foundation Resumes Summer Fellowship in Neuroscience
The Irene & Eric Simon (IES) Brain Research Foundation is excited to announce the resumption of its summer fellowship in neuroscience, marking its 20th anniversary. This prestigious fellowship provides motivated undergraduate, graduate, and medical students with a unique opportunity to work in top-notch labs under esteemed neuroscientists for an intensive eight-week program.
After a pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation is ready to once again award this highly sought-after fellowship. Faye Simon Harac, president and founder of the foundation, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "It's the 20th anniversary, so it's an appropriate time to come back."
A Legacy of Advancing Education and Research in Neuroscience
The Irene & Eric Simon Brain Research Foundation was established by Faye Simon Harac in honor of her parents. Dr. Eric Simon, a renowned New York University scientist, dedicated over 50 years to research in neuroscience. His contributions include coining the term "endorphin" and discovering opiate receptors in the brain, with a focus on drug addiction and broader applications in understanding brain diseases and disorders.
As a nonprofit charity run by volunteers, the foundation relies on the support of donors, sponsors, and fundraisers to raise funds. One such event is the annual Endorphin Golf Outing and Dinner, scheduled for June 3 at the Lake Mohawk Golf Club. All proceeds from this event will directly benefit the foundation's fellowship program.
A Life-Changing Opportunity for Neuroscience Enthusiasts
The Irene & Eric Simon Brain Research Foundation's summer fellowship in neuroscience is a highly competitive program that has historically received a significant number of applications. This opportunity is open to motivated undergraduate, first-year graduate, and medical students who are passionate about neuroscience.
Selected fellows will have the chance to work alongside esteemed neuroscientists and head top-notch labs for an intensive eight-week summer program. The foundation has awarded a total of 110 fellowships over the years, providing students with invaluable hands-on experience in a lab environment.
The primary goal of the fellowship is to help students determine if they wish to pursue a career in neuroscience. The impact of this program has been profound, as former fellows have gone on to pursue careers in medicine and continue their research on addiction and brain disorders.
How to Apply for the Fellowship
The deadline for fellowship applications is March 20. Interested students must write about their science classes, explain their motivation for pursuing the fellowship, and select a neuroscientist as their mentor. It is essential for applicants to reach out to their chosen mentor, who volunteers their time for this program.
The application also requires information about the student's year of school, their institution, and their grades. Detailed information and application forms can be found on the foundation's website at www.iesbrainresearch.org. Applications must be postmarked by March 20, and selected students will be notified by April 30. Fellowships typically begin between mid-May and June 1.
Success Stories from Former Fellows
The Irene & Eric Simon Brain Research Foundation's fellowship program has had a profound impact on the careers of its former fellows. Aurora Grutman, a former fellow from the 2019 summer program and a summa cum laude graduate from Yale, credits the foundation for providing her with invaluable skills and connections.
Another fellow, Jacob Alderete, is currently in his third year of medical school at UCLA, specializing in neurosurgery. He has continued his research on pain and addiction, specifically investigating the pathways in the brain responsible for the rewarding and pain-relieving effects of opioids in patients with chronic pain.
Supporting the Foundation's Mission
The Irene & Eric Simon Brain Research Foundation accepts donations through various channels, including PayPal, credit card, or check. Those interested in supporting the foundation's mission can visit www.iesbrainresearch.org/donate for more information.
Conclusion
The Irene & Eric Simon Brain Research Foundation's summer fellowship in neuroscience is an incredible opportunity for students passionate about neuroscience to gain hands-on experience in top-notch labs. With a legacy of advancing education and research in neuroscience, the foundation has made a profound impact on the careers of its former fellows.
By providing students with the chance to work alongside esteemed neuroscientists, the fellowship program helps them determine if a career in neuroscience is the right path for them. The foundation relies on the support of donors, sponsors, and fundraisers to continue offering this life-changing opportunity.
If you're interested in supporting the foundation's mission or applying for the fellowship, visit their website at www.iesbrainresearch.org for more information. Don't miss out on this chance to make a difference in the field of neuroscience!