Faculty Leaders:

William Velhagen, PhD 

Dean of the School of Arts & Sciences        

Caldwell university 

 

Darryl Aucoin, PhD 

Chair of Natural Sciences        

Caldwell university 

Maria Agapito, PhD 

President 

NJ Academy of Science    
Assistant Professor of Biology

Caldwell university

Amy Hains

Program Manager

STEM Advance Project

School of Arts & Sciences   

Caldwell university

Governmental/Champion Representative:

Angelica Lindo

Business Engagement & Sector Strategies Specialist

NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development

NJAS Advisory Council Member

Vibha Jawa, PhD

BMS

Executive Director 

Champion Leader

Project Goals

This collaborative initiative between the New Jersey Academy of Science (NJAS), NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development - Industry Partnerships - Life Sciences  and Caldwell University aims to expand access to biotechnology careers for high school students, particularly those in under-resourced New Jersey districts. By providing hands-on STEM learning, we bridge the gap between classroom education and real-world biotech experience.

The two-week immersive summer program allows students to engage in scientific investigations and develop practical research skills. Participants will have the opportunity to present their research at the 71st NJ Academy of Science Annual Meeting in the Spring of 2026. Top presenters will attend the 2027 NAAS/AJAS and AAAS Annual Meeting, providing national exposure and networking opportunities.

By engaging students early, this program fosters a diverse biotech workforce while helping participants develop essential technical skills, critical thinking, teamwork, and professional communication—key for success in STEM fields.

Benefits to Caldwell from Partnering with NJAS

1. Proven Track Record – NJAS has successfully organized STEM programs for over 70 years, ensuring high-quality instruction and industry partnerships.

2. Industry Connections – Collaboration with NJAS’s extensive biotech and pharmaceutical network enhances mentorship, internship, and career opportunities for students.

3. National Recognition for Students – Researchers have opportunities to present at regional and national meetings and present their research to industry leaders.

4. National Recognition for Caldwell – Caldwell will be identified as the research site on student presentations at regional and compete at national meetings showcasing that Caldwell research students compete on a National Level.

5. Increased Outreach and Visibility – Caldwell University benefits from NJAS’s statewide STEM engagement, strengthening its reputation in biotech education.

6. Grant Support & Funding Assistance – NJAS actively seeks external funding to minimize program costs and provide scholarships to low socio-economic population students.

7. Established STEM Network – NJAS is an affiliate of the AAAS and NAAS, providing access to national resources and networks for student enrichment.

Program Details

Target Audience: 20 high school students (First year)

Addressing the Need

Many New Jersey schools lack biotech curricula, limiting students’ exposure to high-demand careers. This initiative:

• Strengthens the biotech workforce pipeline through hands-on research training.

• Introduces students to advanced research methods valuable in academia and industry.

Summer Program Dates: August 4–14, 2025

Location: Caldwell University, Raymond Hall

Program Schedule: Monday–Friday 9 AM – 4 PM

Week 1: Exploring STEM Careers & Crafting Your Research Proposal

• Hands-on lab activities and biotech career talks

• Develop individual research proposals with mentorship from STEM professionals

• Careers Seminars with Biotech Champions

Week 2: Bringing Your Research to Life!

Students will:

• Design and conduct experiments in molecular biology, microscopy  and bioinformatics

• Learn data analysis, troubleshooting techniques, and professional research presentation skills

• Poster Presentations at the Caldwell University STEM Research Showcase, featuring feedback from scientists and industry leaders

• A day to site visit the to BioPharma facility

Recruitment & Outreach

NJAS and Caldwell University will recruit students and educators through:

• NJAS Network & Social Media – Outreach to NJAS-affiliated schools, educators, and partners.

• Press Releases & Email Campaigns – Leveraging platforms like Patch.com and direct emails to STEM organizations.

• Caldwell University Website – Promotion via Caldwell’s STEM outreach initiatives.

• Caldwell University Admissions – Promotion via summer camp program.

Evaluation Metrics

Program Success Measures:

1. Student Research Completion – Evaluated on a three-tiered rubric:

   • Needs Improvement: Proposal completed but lacks data.

   • Good: Proposal includes minimal data and findings.

   • Great: Comprehensive research with strong analysis.

2. Student Feedback Surveys – Post-program evaluations assessing experience, strengths, and areas for improvement.

3. Long-Term Impact Tracking – Surveying participants’ continued STEM engagement and college/career pathways.