About the Essay Contest

High School Essay Contest 

  • Arizona Students in the Flagstaff/Phoenix/Tucson metro areas can Win a PAID Summer Internship!
  • New Mexico Students Can Win $150 Cash Prize!

The Southwest Association for Education in Biomedical Research sponsors an essay contest each spring for high school students. Winners in the Flagstaff, Tucson and Phoenix metropolitan areas receive a paid summer internship, which could range from 6 to 10 weeks, dependent on student and institution schedules, working in a research lab in one of the following institutions: Arizona State University, Barrow Neurological Institute at St. Joseph's Hospital, Mayo Clinic Arizona in Scottsdale, Northern Arizona University, Banner Sun Health Research Institute, or The University of Arizona.  Winners from other high schools in Arizona (and New Mexico) who may be unable to work in these metropolitan areas receive a cash award of $150.  Finalists will also receive a cash prize.

The purpose of this contest is to help identify and recognize students who can demonstrate superior understanding of the scientific process used in research, the importance of the use of animals in the medical and biological sciences, and who can artfully communicate that understanding in writing. All entries are judged on the basis of scientific accuracy, logic, originality, creativity, command of the English language and an understanding of the scientific process and the importance of use of animals in research.