Unlike broad STEM camps, this program concentrates on a focused interdisciplinary area with a structured learning progression that includes engineering design principles, CAD exposure, and a capstone project, mirroring a university-style project-based learning model.
The UCI Lab on Chip Summer School is an interdisciplinary STEM program for high school students, developed in partnership with the UC Irvine School of Engineering. Students explore the intersection of biology, chemistry, and micro-scale chip systems through foundational concepts and applied design. The program introduces participants to lab on chip systems, materials science, chemical engineering, and bioengineering. Students gain introductory exposure to materials science and microfluidic principles, learning basic engineering design logic and structured problem-solving methods. The curriculum includes hands-on technical experience applying algebra to engineering challenges and modeling micro-scale designs using introductory CAD tools like Onshape and Arduino IDE. Participants will also engage in advanced manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing and laser cutting. The program culminates in a guided capstone project where students design, build, and test a portable microfluidic device, such as one capable of detecting the concentration of a fluorescein solution for dry eye disease. Professional development workshops and tours of UCI labs and facilities are also included.
A typical day involves short, focused lessons on core concepts, followed by lab and build sessions in engineering environments, culminating in work on a final project that students design, test, iterate, and present.
This program is ideal for motivated high school students interested in engineering and applied sciences, particularly those curious about how biology, chemistry, and micro-scale chip systems intersect.
University of California, Irvine
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