Succeed
    Research Techniques in Molecular Biology
    In-person Program

    Research Techniques in Molecular Biology

    by Brown Pre-College Programs

    Brown’s molecular biology course combines laboratory experiments with an independent research project, exploring DNA, proteins and techniques used in biotechnology and medical research.

    Last verified: 9 Oct 2026Reviewed by:SSSean Stevens

    Get the full picture before you decide

    Request your Program Guide. We'll email it within 24 hours.

    or let us know if .

    • What Succeed checks

      We review public program details such as eligibility, age range, cost, duration, location, format, accommodation, meals and application timing.

    • What Last verified means

      Last verified is the latest date Succeed checked the public details shown on this page. Program dates, prices and availability can still change.

    • How official sources are used

      Succeed uses official provider information where available, then rewrites it into a student-facing summary for comparison and planning.

    • Why some dates are reference dates

      If the current cycle is not available, Succeed may show the latest verified cycle dates so you can understand typical timing.

    • Succeed is independent from this provider unless a partnership is clearly stated.

    Research Techniques at a glance: cost, dates and eligibility

    Current status

    Upcoming

    Eligibility

    Completing grades 8–9; prior biology labs

    Age range / Year group

    Ages 13-15

    Location / Region

    Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States

    Cost

    $6,052

    Duration

    2 weeks

    Format

    In-person

    Next deadline

    Not announced · Next cycle not announced

    Get next-cycle reminder
    BiologyScienceMedicine
    Accommodation: Shared university residence hall room
    Meals: Three daily meals; regular snacks
    Certificate / Outcome: Digital CeCertificate; Course Performance Report
    Campus experience: Fitness, athletic and aquatics center access
    Instructor: Mary Ruehr
    Sessions / cadence: 10 mornings; W/F then M/W afternoons
    Independent project work: 12–15 hours across two weeks

    Research Techniques summary

    Brown’s course introduces molecular biology through laboratory work with DNA, RNA and proteins, connecting practical techniques to biotechnology and medical research.

    Students explore PCR, gel electrophoresis, gene expression and protein purification, then develop a culminating research project and present their work.

    It suits students who enjoy careful experiments and want to understand how laboratory methods answer scientific questions.

    What is Research Techniques in Molecular Biology?

    Research Techniques in Molecular Biology is a Brown University Pre-College course within STEM for Rising 9th and 10th Graders. It combines laboratory research with the study of DNA, RNA and proteins, connecting molecular biology methods to medical research and biotechnology.

    Students manipulate DNA, express a fluorescent protein gene in bacteria and practice techniques such as PCR and gel electrophoresis. A culminating research project gives them opportunities to investigate applications, develop experiments and present their findings.

    Why Succeed highlights Research Techniques

    • Named laboratory techniques make the course’s practical scope clear, from PCR to protein purification.

    • The culminating project connects technical practice with hypothesis development and scientific problem-solving.

    • Daily access to Collaboration Station gives project preparation a dedicated study setting.

    • A Course Performance Report provides instructor assessment alongside the completion credential.

    • STEM 9/10 combines academic independence with resident staff and structured evening activities.

    Who is Research Techniques for?

    Best for

    Students who enjoy biology experiments and want to connect molecular techniques with an independently developed research question.

    Not ideal if

    You want a lecture-only experience, college credit or a loosely scheduled residential stay with independent off-campus travel.

    Is Research Techniques worth it?

    The strongest reason to consider this course is the combination of laboratory practice and a research project. Students can test whether they enjoy the careful experimental work behind molecular biology, while developing skills useful in more advanced science study.

    Its value depends on wanting that academic experience and accepting the residential structure. The course does not award college credit, and Brown states that Pre-College is not a prospecting program for undergraduate admission.

    A practical overview of cost, accommodation, meals, dates and provider details to review before deciding.

    Cost and what is included

    $6,052; includes Course instruction, Residence hall housing, Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, Regular STEM 9/10 snacks, Fitness, athletic and aquatics center access, Program activities and excursions, Digital CeCertificate after successful completion, Course Performance Report.

    Accommodation

    Shared university residence hall room

    Meals

    Three daily meals; regular snacks

    Supervision or safety information

    Resident Assistants live with students, and trained student life staff support the residential experience. STEM 9/10 has mandatory structured activities and a 10 p.m. room curfew.

    Provider details

    Review the Brown Pre-College Programs provider page and official sources before making a final decision.

    Dates and logistics

    2 weeks; Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States.

    What to check before committing

    Confirm current dates, payment terms, travel arrangements, cancellation rules and what is included with the provider.

    Compare this program with similar options before deciding on dates, cost, format and fit.

    Compare with similar programs

    How much preparation does Research Techniques need?

    Effort level

    High for a short introductory course.

    Best started

    Begin application preparation six to eight weeks before a future published deadline, allowing time for essays, records and English testing.

    Main challenge

    Balancing laboratory learning, project preparation and residential responsibilities.

    Typical preparation

    • Review DNA, RNA, proteins and the scientific method before attending.

    • Gather academic records and draft the required application essay independently.

    • Pack closed-toe shoes, long pants and suitable laboratory tops.

    • Plan project study time and agree on a family communication routine before arrival.

    Useful if

    You want to prepare for advanced biology courses and future laboratory opportunities.

    What do students do on Research Techniques?

    You learn how molecular biology techniques work by using them in laboratory activities, then investigate their applications through a culminating research project. The course connects experimental practice with disease identification, therapeutic proteins and vaccines.

    Step-by-step process

    1. 1

      Build an understanding of DNA, RNA and proteins.

    2. 2

      Manipulate DNA and express the Green Fluorescent Protein gene in bacteria.

    3. 3

      Practice PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA extraction and protein purification.

    4. 4

      Investigate how these methods are used in biotechnology and medical research.

    5. 5

      Develop a research project, with opportunities to design experiments around a hypothesis or real-world problem.

    6. 6

      Prepare and deliver a final project presentation.

    Research Techniques dates and deadlines

    Next cycle not announced yet. These dates are from the latest verified cycle and should be used as a reference only.

    Application deadline

    15 May 2026

    General Brown Pre-College application deadline.

    Reference date

    Programme dates

    13-24 July 2026

    Reference date

    Applications open

    14 January 2026

    Brown Pre-College’s 2026 application cycle.

    Reference date

    Final admission decisions

    22 May 2026

    Reference date

    Residential check-in

    12 July 2026

    9 a.m.–1 p.m. Eastern Time at Sayles Hall.

    Reference date

    Closing events

    24 July 2026

    Morning presentation and closing activities; residence hall checkout by 4 p.m.

    Reference date

    Eligibility and requirements

    • Completing grades 8 or 9.

    • Ages 13–15 by 14 June 2026.

    • Prior biology or life science coursework, including laboratory experience.

    • Strong English proficiency.

    • Qualifying English test results for applicable international applicants.

    • No prior or overlapping on-campus courses during STEM 9/10 participation.

    • No overlapping online course.

    • Attendance at all classes and structured STEM activities.

    • Compliance with laboratory clothing and safety rules.

    How much does Research Techniques cost?

    Residential program fee

    $6,052 — 2026 fee for the two-week STEM 9/10 course.

    Funding or discounts

    • Course supplemental fee: $50 — Charged in addition to the program fee.
    • Application fee: $80 — Nonrefundable; eligible applicants may request a waiver.
    • Enrollment deposit: $500 — Required before course enrollment; generally nonrefundable.
    • Sibley Scholarship: Variable need-based assistance — Separate application; eligibility restrictions and funding limits apply.
    • Required insurance, when applicable: $80 — Applies to international students and U.S. students without qualifying insurance.

    What's included

    Course instruction, Residence hall housing, Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, Regular STEM 9/10 snacks, Fitness, athletic and aquatics center access, Program activities and excursions, Digital CeCertificate after successful completion, Course Performance Report

    How to apply to Research Techniques

    1. 1

      Create one applicant account in Brown’s Student Portal.

    2. 2

      Complete the application form and write the required 250–500-word essay.

    3. 3

      Upload current and previous academic-year grades and any required additional materials.

    4. 4

      Submit English proficiency results when applicable and any recommendation you elect or are asked to provide.

    5. 5

      Pay the application fee or request a waiver if eligible.

    6. 6

      Monitor your portal and email for missing-material requests and the admission decision.

    7. 7

      After admission, confirm your intended course before submitting the deposit and completing separate enrollment.

    8. 8

      Complete health, housing and other required forms with your parent or guardian before arrival.

    Next step with Succeed

    Interested in this programme?

    or let us know if .

    Succeed replies first, usually within a working day

    What does Research Techniques cover?

    The program covers the following focus areas.

    DNA, RNA and proteins

    Study the molecules that underpin molecular biology and apply that knowledge in laboratory work.

    Gene expression

    Manipulate DNA and express the Green Fluorescent Protein gene in bacteria.

    DNA analysis

    Practice PCR, gel electrophoresis and extraction of your own DNA.

    Proteins and biotechnology

    Explore protein purification and applications in therapeutic proteins, vaccines and disease identification.

    Research project

    Investigate applications of laboratory techniques and develop a project for a final presentation.

    Curriculum may be adjusted based on participant interests and current developments.

    What is a typical day on Research Techniques?

    A typical day during the program.

    Morning course

    Attend the academic course each weekday morning.

    Afternoon academics

    Meet Wednesday and Friday in week 1, then Monday and Wednesday in week 2.

    Project preparation

    Use Collaboration Station and designated free time to prepare the culminating project.

    Evening activities

    Join supervised activities before the 10 p.m. room curfew and 10:30 p.m. quiet time.

    Who teaches on Research Techniques?

    The listed course instructor is Mary Ruehr. STEM 9/10 students can use instructor office hours to discuss course content, assignments and questions beyond class.

    Where do students stay on Research Techniques?

    Residential plan

    • Shared residence hall room: Share with another STEM 9/10 student no more than one year apart in age, near classrooms and dining halls.
    • Meals and snacks: Residential fees include three daily dining hall meals, with regular snacks for STEM 9/10 students.
    • Resident staff and supervision: Resident Assistants live with students and support mandatory activities, room curfew and community life.
    • Room and campus facilities: Furnished rooms provide Wi-Fi and cooling, while program fees include fitness, athletic and aquatics center access.

    Roommate requests are not honored; students should bring their own linens, towels and pillows.

    What happens after Research Techniques?

    After completing this program, participants often pursue:

    Build practical preparation for advanced biology courses.

    Develop skills relevant to future internships and undergraduate laboratory opportunities.

    Complete a culminating research project and presentation.

    Receive a Digital CeCertificate after successful completion.

    Receive an instructor Course Performance Report.

    Laboratory placements are not guaranteed, and the course does not award college credit or a university transcript.

    Where does Research Techniques take place?

    The course takes place at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, with residence halls within walking distance of classrooms and dining halls. Families coordinate transportation to and from campus, and residential check-in takes place at Sayles Hall on the Main Green.

    STEM 9/10 students cannot travel independently during the program.

    Research Techniques FAQs

    The course covers PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA extraction, protein purification and expression of the Green Fluorescent Protein gene in bacteria.

    You need middle school or high school biology or life science coursework, including some laboratory experience.

    You research applications of the laboratory techniques and have the opportunity to develop experiments around a hypothesis or real-world problem. You present your project on the final day.

    Expect 12–15 hours of project preparation across the two weeks. Students have daily access to Collaboration Station, a shared study space.

    This is a non-credit course without formal grades. Successful completion earns a Digital CeCertificate of Completion and a Course Performance Report.

    Students share a Brown residence hall room with another STEM 9/10 student no more than one year apart in age. Residential fees include breakfast, lunch and dinner, and STEM 9/10 students also receive snacks regularly.

    Resident Assistants live with students, and trained student life staff support the residential experience. STEM 9/10 has mandatory structured activities and a 10 p.m. room curfew.

    No. Students apply to Brown Pre-College first, then complete a separate course enrollment step after admission and a deposit.

    Alternatives to Research Techniques

    Compare these biology and medical science options by subject focus, delivery format and age range.

    Alternatives to Research Techniques

    Topics in Biochemistry

    An online course focused on biochemistry

    Biology
    Deadline: Not announced
    From $3200
    14-17
    Online
    Online

    Best for

    Students seeking online biology-related study

    View details

    Save this program in Succeed to compare it with similar programs, dates, costs and formats in one place.

    Compare with other programs
    Sean Stevens

    Content reviewed by

    Sean Stevens

    Co-founder, Succeed | Founder, Immerse Education (2012–2026)

    Sean works at the intersection of academic enrichment, program quality and university preparation, with expertise in evaluating pre-university experiences for ambitious secondary school students.

    View author page

    Sources & verification

    Source types reviewed

    • Application Fee Waivers | Pre-College Program | Brown University
    • Sibley Scholarships | Pre-College Program | Brown University
    • CeCertificate Access | Pre-College Program | Brown University
    • Handbook of Pre-College Policies | Pre-College Program | Brown University
    • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) | Pre-College Program | Brown University
    • Financial Policies and Payment Information | Pre-College Program | Brown University
    • STEM for Rising 9th and 10th Graders | Pre-College Program | Brown University
    • Application Checklist | Pre-College Program | Brown University
    • Apply | Pre-College Program | Brown University
    • Program Dates and Costs | Pre-College Program | Brown University
    • STEM for Rising 9th and 10th Graders
    • Laboratory/Project Attire
    • 2026 Program Costs: Breakdown of Fees
    • Research Techniques in Molecular Biology - Pre-College Course Catalog"

    Succeed uses official provider information where available, but keeps this public page focused on comparison and planning inside Succeed.

    What we verified (on 9 Oct 2026)

    • Official course page checked

    • Course prerequisites reviewed

    • Application deadline compared

    • Residential fees matched

    • Class timetable reviewed

    • Housing and meals reviewed

    • Completion credentials checked

    How Succeed uses this information

    We use source material to verify core facts, then show older cycle dates as reference when a current cycle is not available. Always check current application instructions before applying.