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For almost 60 years YSP has brought high achieving high school students to campus to introduce them to careers in scientific research. This would not be possible without the guidance and support YSP participants get from their UC Davis research mentors.

Program Details

The six-week program runs from late June to early August. Exact program dates for the coming year can be found on the “About” tab on this website. During the first two weeks, students attend a morning lecture series and work in their labs in the afternoons. During the final four weeks, each student works full time in the lab. At the end of the program, students present their research findings in an open symposium.

Interested in Hosting a Participant?

The goal of the research placement is to immerse students in a research project. As a research mentor you would work with the student in your lab. In addition to mentoring students through the research project we also ask that you help them as they write their final paper and develop their research presentation. We can offer $500 in research support funds. If you are interested in working with us please email Director Megan Bettis at mmckenzie@ucdavis.edu for sign-up links.

If you are unable to participate in UCD-YSP this summer but know a researcher or new faculty member who may be interested, please forward this email or reply with their contact information. You are our greatest asset in recruiting new faculty mentors and the opportunities you provide allows us to offer a high quality program for our participants.

Support For Research Mentors

Prior to the start of the program, we will provide you with a short virtual training on how to work with high school students most effectively.   During the program, your student’s YSP counselor will check in with you and be available to contact if any questions or concerns arise.

University Policies for Working with Minors

All participants in YSP, including mentors, are required to comply with the UC Davis Policy on Activities and Programs with Minors. This policy requires the following:

• One-on-one interactions between adult participants and youths may only take place in open, well-illuminated spaces or rooms observable by other adults directly involved in the activity or program.
• Individuals who interact with, supervise, chaperone, or oversee minors in any activities and programs are required to participate in the University’s background screening program. Screening is required every 3 years. All of the costs of the fingerprinting will be covered by UCD-YSP.
• Individuals who interact with, supervise, chaperone or oversee minors are also required to complete training regarding mandatory reporting and maintaining a safe program for minors.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Program Director Megan McKenzie Bettis at mmckenzie@ucdavis.edu.

If you would like more information about the program, please feel free to contact Megan Bettis, look through the rest of this website, or follow YSP on social media.

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Instagram: @ucdavisysp