Our Mission:
The Gene Team is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all students can engage in cutting-edge biological research and receive college preparatory mentoring. We strive to broaden participation in science by actively supporting students, ensuring they have the resources, mentorship, and opportunities needed to thrive in scientific careers.
Gene Team Summer Program:
Applications for summer 2026 will open in February!
Are you interested in studying biology in college? If so, the Gene Team program at Pitt would love to hear from you! We are looking for a group of scientific-minded high school students who want to learn more about Biology while developing laboratory skills. You will be immersed in a current research project from a lab here at Pitt over the course of the 4-week program. Additionally, we will take time to focus on strategies and skills that will be invaluable for applying to and succeeding in college!
The Gene Team was founded in 2006 and has been accredited by Middles States Association
Gene Team is offered to students from high schools within the Pittsburgh region.
Summer 2026: June 22nd-July 17th, 9am-3pm Monday through Friday
Location: Langley Hall, University of Pittsburgh
To be added to an email list to receive updates about Gene Team, please email Jess Robertson (jah99@pitt.edu)
Gene Team FAQs
What will I be doing in the program? You will carry out state-of-the-art biomedical research projects, teamed with other high-school students. You will also attend weekly sessions that provide strategies and skills for applying for college.
What are the educational qualifications? You must have completed one year of high school Biology
Do I need to have had previous research experience? No, we will learn together and teach you everything that you will need to know. Pitt faculty will be in lab each day for additional support and assistance.
What are the working hours for the program? You will be in the lab on the Pitt campus Monday through Friday, 9 AM to (approximately) 3 PM.
I have a family vacation planned. Will I have to miss it? Probably. Because of the team structure, it is permissible for each participant to miss no more than 2 days of the summer session. We will have off July 3, 2026. You are not permitted to miss the first day or the last two day of the program.
Do I get paid? Yes. Students receive a $1000 honorarium, paid at the end of the program.
How about transportation to campus? Free Port Authority bus passes are available.
How do I apply for this program? A link to the application will be posted when applications are open. Applications are due at the end of March, and interviews will be held in April.
When will I find out if I'm accepted to the program? Applicants will be notified by mid May.
How do I get more information or answers to other questions? Contact Dr. Becky Gonda at 412-383-5739 or reg11@pitt.edu. We welcome all questions and would love to speak with you about the program.
Check out Gene Team-at-home final projects from 2020 and 2021! Students worked during the pandemic on multiple projects!
Gene Team 2020 YouTube channel
Gene Team 2021 YouTube channel
Gene Team Science Corps
The Gene Team Science Corps is made up of Gene Team alumni who return as science ambassadors to inspire the next generation. Through hands-on activities, conversations, and public engagement, Science Corps members connect with students and community audiences to share their passion for biology and show how science is relevant, creative, and accessible. Their experiences help spark curiosity, build confidence, and make pathways in STEM visible.