Since 1960, the Masonic Medical Research Laboratory (MMRL) has recognized the importance to encourage talented young men and women to pursue a career in science or medicine. This year Madalene Boyle (St. Lawrence University), Anish Butala (New York University), Natalie Chlus (Bucknell University), Suparna Dang (University of Rochester), Brittany Gianetti (Virginia State University), John Picano (Boston College) and Janire Urrutia (Basque Country University, Spain) will join a distinguished group of over 400 students who have participated in the MMRL Summer Fellowship Program.

The 10 week program permits students direct involvement in research projects under staff guidance in the fields of experimental cardiology, molecular biology and molecular genetics. During their tenure, students gain an appreciation for how scientific problems pertaining to medical disease are approached and examined, and experience the day to day running of a cutting-edge research facility. After completing the program, they will gain knowledge and practical experience in physiological, biochemical, molecular and pharmacological methodologies and be better prepared to make important career decisions.

The summer session closed with a scientific symposium presented by the students on Thursday, July 30 followed by an awards luncheon honoring the Summer Fellows and local sponsors at the Laboratory. Funding for this year's program has been provided by the Slocum-Dickson Foundation, Drs. Atul & Amita Butala, Dr. Ashok Patel, Utica Lodge 47, F. & A.M. and Bredablick Lodge 880, F. & A.M.