Base Pair

Base Pair is a biomedical research mentorship program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) for high school students at Murrah High School in Jackson, Mississippi. Started in 1992, it matches students with UMMC faculty researchers so they can do hands-on lab work under a scientist's supervision. Most participants are juniors or seniors, and freshmen or sophomores have taken part only rarely. In the fall, students take a preparatory Biomedical Research course at Murrah and reach out to up to three possible mentors. From January to May they spend each weekday afternoon, from 2:15 to 3:15 p.m., in a UMMC lab, with bus transportation provided between campuses. The program is part of the school day and earns graduation credit, up to two Carnegie credits over two years. Students may reapply for a second year with their mentor's agreement.

Any Murrah High School student may apply, and students from other Jackson Public School District schools or outside the district may apply if transportation and course enrollment can be arranged. Applicants need a strong background in biology and chemistry, good writing and computer skills, curiosity and a solid academic record, and every applicant has a personal interview.