Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us

About the Consortium

What Is The Consortium?

The NYC Science Research Mentoring Consortium (The Consortium) is a partnership of academic, research, and cultural institutions committed to providing dynamic, mentored, science research experiences for NYC high school students who have an interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). Our mission is to provide students, from historically underrepresented backgrounds in STEM fields and careers access to innovative research internships that will support them in their college and career pathways. The Consortium cultivates a community of practice among a diverse network of scientists, graduate students, educators and like-minded individuals with shared values and research endeavors. Together this community invests in and empowers our scholars to succeed in STEM academically and professionally. The Consortium consists of 30 partners and has over 500 students, or Pinkerton Science Scholars, participating.

Who Are The Consortium's Partners?

The Consortium consists of 30 partner programs from academic, cultural, and research institutions that are supporting over 500 students across NYC. Visit our Programs page for a complete list of our partner programs.

For Students

What Is A Pinkerton Science Scholar?

Pinkerton Science Scholars are students participating in, or alumni of, any one (or more) of the Consortium's programs. The Pinkerton Science Scholars are a diverse community of young STEM researchers.

What Are The Eligibility Requirements To Participate?

Eligibility requirements vary by program. All students must meet the requirements below. Please review program page's for program-specific eligibility requirements. • Preparatory coursework in science content, methodologies and lab skills • NYC High School Student

What Are The Benefits Of Participating In The Program?

There are many benefits to participating in a Consortium partner program! • Stipend: All Pinkerton Science Scholars receive a stipend for their participation. The amount and frequency of the stipend varies per Consortium program. • Authentic, Mentored Research: All scholars are paired one-to-one, two-to-one with a professional scientist or academic who provides mentorship and support for student research. Scholars gain authentic, research experience collaborating with a professional in the field. • Exposure to STEM Careers: Scholars gain hands-on experience in STEM careers and research with the added guidance of their professional mentors. • College Readiness: The Consortium programs also host college readiness workshops providing scholars with additional tools and resources to succeed in college.

What Should Students Expect From The Programs?

• Preparatory coursework in science content, methodologies and lab skills • Experience authentic, mentored science research project • Academic and career guidance for science success • Access to unique science learning environments such as exhibits, natural environments fieldwork, objects and specimens, etc. • Access to scientific journals and presentations • A culminating research project

What Sort Of Research Will I Be Doing? Do I Get To Choose My Research Focus?

Students do not choose their research project, instead they will support mentors' overall research as one would do if they were joining a lab. Please review each of our programs as the areas of research vary from environmental science, neuroscience, biology and much more. You can have some autonomy in your research by electing to apply to the program(s) that align with your interests.

How Do I Apply To One Of The Consortium Partner Programs?

Please review each program's page for application instructions as the process varies by program.

I Am An Alumni Of One Of The Programs - How Do I Reconnect With The Program?

Alumni should reconnect with us on social media! The Consortium is currently on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

For Parents & Guardians:

I Would Like My Child To Get Involved, But They Are Reluctant At The Moment. How Can They Find Out More Information?

Prospective scholars can contact us and we can also connect them with alumni. Additionally, prospective scholars are encouraged to attend any of our public events that can be found on our events calendar.

How Are Mentors Prepped To Work With Youth?

All mentors undergo an intensive youth development training. Many of our mentors return each year and so have previous experience working in the lab and on research with young people.

How Can My Child Apply To Get Involved?

Please review each program's page for application instructions as the process varies by program.

For Mentors:

Do Mentors Get Paid?

Mentors do get compensated for mentoring and supporting students. Compensation varies by program from stipends to equipment provided. Please contact the program staff for details.

What Are The Mentor Requirements?

Mentors must be able to make the time commitment and attend the mentor training.

How Do I Apply To Become Involved?

Please contact the program staff for details.

For Educators:

I Have A Group Of Students Or A Student That I Think Is A Great Fit For The Consortium, How Do I Get Them Involved?

It is important to consider the student's or students' interests then read through all the program's descriptions to narrow down the best options for students. Then contact the appropriate program liaison.

For Organizations & Institutions:

We Already Have A STEM Mentoring Program, But Want To Expand It. How Do We Join The Consortium?

Please contact the Consortium Senior Program Coordinator, at the American Museum of Natural History at (212) 496-3521

We Are Interested In Building A STEM Mentoring Program For High School Students. Can The Consortium Support This?

Please contact the Consortium Senior Program Coordinator, at the American Museum of Natural History at (212) 496-3521

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© 2024 NYC Science Research Mentoring Consortium | All rights reserved
Designed by [L]earned Media.

© 2024 NYC Science Research Mentoring Consortium

All rights reserved

Designed by [L]earned Media.