The application period for University students, postdoctoral fellows and science researchers who would like to be Ambassadors on DNA Day 2010 will open December 7th. You can apply online by clicking here. If you have any questions, please email Hyun Kate Lee, coordinator for this event.
As a volunteer for NC DNA Day this is your chance to participate as an ambassador and visit a classroom in North Carolina. You will present one of six exciting, interactive educational modules that have already been developed by UNC graduate students. These modules have been reviewed by educators and high school students to insure you will be delivering an effective and exciting scientific educational module.
You will also have an opportunity to inform high school students about your own research or your research interest and highlight its importance and relevance.
This program is aimed at inspiring high school students to be the next generation of scientists who will use the human genome sequence to benefit human health and to better inform the future generation that will need to understand genomics to make health care decisions. The experience will also provide you with an opportunity to interact with high school students and gain teaching and education outreach experience.
"Our genetics are going to play an important role in the future on many different levels, including health care. It is crucial for students to have an understanding of what the human genome is and the ethical implications of its use beyond just the biology of DNA. I am very excited to share some "real life" applications of biology with students and hopefully inspire a new appreciation for science in the process."
Elizabeth Sweger, UNC-Chapel Hill Graduate Student
"Many students think of scientists as old men in lab coats. Hopefully, we'll abolish their stereotypes and leave them thinking that science is really cool and inspiring. My hope is that our program will motivate a whole new generation of scientists."
Jessica Harell, UNC-Chapel Hill Graduate Student
"I think DNA Day is a wonderful opportunity to not only discuss aspects and implications of the genome project, but also to demystify the image of a scientist. We can show these students that we are not crazy people walking around with wild hair with beakers containing colored bubbling liquid that is about to explode, but that we are people who truly want to make a difference to help society, and hopefully, encourage some of them to join the cause. I am honored to be a part of DNA Day."
Michael Johnson, UNC-Chapel Hill Graduate Student