CHOC Children's Research Institute & University Lab Partners launch high school STEM program

The CHOC Children’s Research Institute and University Lab Partners (ULP) have come together to developed a new science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) program - the Medical Innovation and Entrepreneurship. This program is geared towards inspiring Orange County high school students to become the next generation of biotech innovators.  Students will work alongside the County’s leaders in innovation and medicine as these leaders seek to impart a real-world view of the multidisciplinary skills needed to thrive in the biotech entrepreneurial world.

According to ULP, the Medical Innovation and Entrepreneurship High School program will take students on a journey from idea to innovation, teaching them what is required to implement their vision. Students will work in teams with industry mentors on real-world unmet clinical needs presented by CHOC Children’s clinicians. Each team will devise a proof-of-concept, an IP and patent strategy, and an exit plan which they will pitch to industry leaders on the final day. Through pediatric-focused case studies, customized lesson plans, team project work, and mentorship opportunities, students will identify real-world solutions to issues that directly impact pediatric patients. Students will learn the role a clinician and engineer play as they navigate unmet clinical needs, hospital systems, care providers, and regulatory trends required for healthcare innovation. In addition, The Young Entrepreneur OC will be fostering the next generation of leaders through the transformative experience of building a startup. While learning key skills needed to build and lead a company, the program also coaches young people on how to identify and leverage successful pathways to reach personal and professional goals.

Learn more here!