High school students learn the ins and outs of academic research in experiential summer program

Each summer, Alberta’s brightest high school students trade in their typical summer plans for pipettes, research papers and lab coats to gain health research experience alongside renowned faculty at the University of Calgary.

Throughout the six-week Alberta Innovates High School Youth Researcher Summer (HYRS) program, students passionate about health and biomedical research learn the importance of knowledge translation, gain technical skills and build lasting relationships with peers and mentors. 

“We’ve supported the HYRS program for 26 years because we truly believe in the value of the program,” says Dr. Stephanie Borgland, PhD, associate vice-president (Research). “These high school students get hands-on experience in the lab, where innovative research is taking place. They learn various techniques and research methodologies and can start to make their own discoveries.” 

The student experience

For Nathania John, a Grade 11 student from North Trail High School, HYRS provided the chance to explore a topic close to her heart. Under the mentorship of Dr. Janet de Groot, MD, she conducted a scoping review on the use of digital storytelling as a communicative intervention for cancer patients.

“I’ve always been curious about research, but I never imagined I’d be able to take part in it at this level — especially while still in high school,” says John. 

Likewise, Zainab Rahmouni, a Grade 11 student from Lester B. Pearson High School, was mentored by Dr. May Lynn Quan, MSc’05, MD, and analyzed breast cancer awareness for young women on TikTok. 

“The HYRS program gave us the chance to explore university labs and facilities, learn from leading researchers, and connect with students who share our curiosity and drive,” says Rahmouni. “It helped us grow not just as learners, but as collaborators and future changemakers.” 

Mentorship that matters 

For many students, the mentorship they receive during HYRS is just as transformative as the research itself.

“When we found out who our mentors were, we were nervous and intimidated by how accomplished they all seemed,” recalls John. “But the day I met my mentor, I felt invited — she walked me through the lab and showed me where I would be working. I felt like I was under a safe wing that day and throughout the entire six weeks.”

For Rahmouni, working with Dr. Quan gave her a glimpse of what a future in academia might look like. “She showed me that being a clinician scientist is also possible and that caring for patients is much more than being bedside. Participating in research can ultimately improve the patient experience.” 

The impact 

While HYRS strengthens students' technical skills, its most lasting impact is showing them the broader world of research and the role they can play in shaping it. 

“With the help of Alberta Innovates and the University of Calgary, I got to experience a more well-rounded aspect of research while still in high school,” says Rahmouni. “But HYRS wasn’t just learning in labs. It was discovering what it means to be in the world of research, and I’m leaving this program more inspired than ever to keep going.” 

But what stood out the most? The people. 

Entering the program as strangers, HYRS students left the program as a tight-knit group of learners inspired by a summer of discovery and collaboration. 

“Looking back, this experience challenged me in all the right ways. I was pushed to think deeper, ask better questions and grow more confident. Beyond the research, I formed friendships with people I wouldn’t have otherwise met,” says John. 

“Leaving HYRS is bittersweet, but I’m walking away with an experience of a lifetime and memories I’ll carry long after this program ends.”