Biomedical Explorers
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:00-6:00 PM
January 22- May 5, 2026
No Cohort on Tuesday, April 7 and Thursday, April 9, 2026
Orientation: Tuesday, January 6, 5:00-6:00 PM
Enter the exciting world of health sciences and biomedical careers! In this afterschool cohort, students will investigate how medical professionals—like surgeons, radiologists, and nurses—work to improve lives. They’ll learn how scientists use model organisms to study diseases like cancer and examine how genetics and the environment impact human health. Students will take a journey of scientific discovery from the research lab to real-world treatments, gaining a deeper understanding of how these processes create the connections between research, medicine, and patient care.
Some of the Guided Activities
- Explore how medical researchers use model organisms to study diseases and develop treatment
- Investigate how scientists take an idea from lab research to real-world patient car
- Work through a medical mystery by diagnosing and treating a fictional patient
- Conduct hands-on experiments to determine how lifestyle and environment affect human health
- Meet a scientist from the Van Andel Institute for Research
This program is for students enrolled in the 6th and 7th grades in Spring 2026. There is no cost for participation in this program. Tuition is fully underwritten by Van Andel Institute.
Due to high demand, students may only register for one Afterschool program at a time. Should you have questions, please email information@vai.org.
For questions or more information, please contact us at information@vaei.org.
Inclement weather policy: If the Grand Rapids Public School (GRPS) district is closed due to inclement weather, Van Andel Institute for Education will be closed.
