TGen Bioscience Leadership Academy Celebrates 2024 Program
7th year of foundational biomedical research program encourages careers in science
PHOENIX, AZ—The Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), part of City of Hope, today celebrated the successful conclusion of the 2024 TGen Bioscience Leadership Academy (TBLA). Held June 17-28, TBLA brought together a select group of high school students from across the state.
Launched in 2018 with support from Helios Education Foundation, TBLA is a two-week educational program designed for 20 rising high school juniors and seniors, offering a $1,000 scholarship. This program provides qualified students with the chance to explore various careers in biomedical research. TGen faculty and administrative experts share career advice and offer hands-on experiences, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of translational research and its impact on clinical trials and precision medicine.
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Students selected for TBLA take part in programs that help them develop professional skills. These include communication in science, public speaking, teamwork, and networking. Similar to TGen’s Helios Scholar program, TBLA provides more opportunities for underrepresented groups in academics, allows graduates to become role models who can motivate other students to succeed and showcases TGen’s and Helios’s leadership in innovative bioscience education.
For Riya Nannapaneni, a rising senior at Corona Del Sol high school in Tempe, the program offered a glimpse into the future of bioscience research.
“TBLA introduced me to the world of research discovery and how those advances benefit patient care and precision medicine,” said Nannapaneni. “I also became aware of the many career options in the biosciences, from clinical research to genetic counseling and finance. From these experiences, I'll leave TBLA with leadership skills, insights into professional relationships, networking abilities, and foundational knowledge I’ll build on throughout my continued education and career.”
Kaus also highlighted the impact and value the 46 community leaders from across a spectrum of businesses and careers who participated in the selection process. Their time and willingness to support the program help set the tone for what students can expect after entering the cohort. Their efforts saw one applicant from any given high school selected to ensure the program represents a cross section of Arizona students and schools.
To learn more or become a sponsor of TGen’s Bioscience Leadership Academy, please contact Kristen Kaus at [email protected].
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