NeuroCamp

NeuroCamp is a free summer neuroscience program run by the UCLA Brain Research Institute in Los Angeles, California, for high school students. About 30 students learn the fundamentals of neuroscience and basic lab techniques in molecular neurobiology, neurophysiology and neuroanatomy, with the goal of sparking interest in research and science careers. Past participants describe hands-on lab work such as brain and spinal cord dissections, nematode behavior experiments and PCR. The 2026 camp was held in person at UCLA in two sessions, June 16 to 18 and June 22 to 26, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day. Students must attend both weeks in full. There is no application fee, and housing and transportation are not provided.

High school students in grades 9 through 12 who live in Los Angeles County can apply. Applicants submit a résumé, a statement of interest covering skills, motivations, goals and availability for the full program, and one signed letter of recommendation on school letterhead from a teacher or mentor. Only one application per student is accepted, and late submissions are not accepted.