About

The Introductory College Level Experience in Microbiology (iCLEM) is a paid, seven-week summer research intensive for economically disadvantaged rising juniors and seniors hosted by the Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI) in Emeryville, California. Designed to broaden participants’ understanding of biotechnology, microbiology, and biofuels, iCLEM places students into real laboratory research environments where they complete an authentic project under the mentorship of JBEI scientists and university partners. Alongside laboratory work, the program integrates college and career preparation, including personal statement workshops, discussions with STEM professionals, and explorations of industry research settings. Nearly all alumni pursue higher education and many go on to major in science or engineering, reflecting the program’s focus on both scientific and academic development.

To be eligible, applicants must be at least 16 by the program start (June 15, 2026), residents of Alameda, Contra Costa, or San Francisco counties, and currently enrolled as high school sophomores or juniors. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or have AB 540/DACA status. Students must meet income thresholds based on the California Department of Education Free/Reduced-Price Lunch scales and have passed Algebra 1 and Biology with a GPA of 2.5 or higher. The 2026 program runs from June 15 to July 31, beginning with a virtual prep week followed by six weeks of in-person research. Accepted students receive a $3,000 stipend for successful completion. The application deadline is March 16, 2026, and requires a transcript, personal statement, motivation statement, and a teacher contact for reference.

Instruction centers on hands-on laboratory techniques in molecular biology, biochemistry, and synthetic biology, integrated with professional development. Students learn through conducting experiments, maintaining lab records, analyzing data, and communicating results, while also gaining exposure to careers in biotechnology via site visits and professional conversations. Faculty and mentors include JBEI research scientists, UC undergraduate partners, and high school science teachers, creating a multi-tiered mentorship environment.

JBEI’s mission to advance bioenergy research underpins iCLEM, embedding high school trainees into the same research ecosystem that drives innovations in sustainable fuels and bioproducts. This institutional grounding reflects JBEI’s commitment to diversifying the STEM pipeline and making high-level research accessible to underrepresented students.

Participants complete iCLEM with tangible research experience, improved lab competencies, and enhanced confidence navigating scientific environments and academic planning; the program does not confer formal college credit but functions as a transformative research immersion for undeserved students who need it most.