In 1999, amid the global anticipation of a new millennium and reflections on all the advancements made throughout the 20th century, physicians and scientists at the Indiana University School of Medicine and Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research were already thinking ahead. They recognized an urgency to attract more young minds to careers in science and medicine to keep up with biomedical advances and shape the future of global health. Intending to bridge that gap, they started a program for Indiana high school students called Molecular Medicine in Action (MMIA). Now, a quarter-century later, their vision is an astounding success. More than 1,200 students have completed the program and there’s no intention of slowing it down.
“The program has evolved since its inception, but the need for passionate, diverse and dedicated science professionals is important now more than ever,” said Amelia Linnemann, PhD, associate professor of pediatrics at the IU School of Medicine and MMIA program chair. “MMIA’s enduring legacy is a true testament to the Wells Center’s commitment to training the next generation of scientists and physicians and enhancing Indiana’s STEM workforce.”
MMIA’s 25th anniversary symposium occurred on March 3 and 4, 2024, bringing 50 high school students across Indiana to Indianapolis. The event provided an immersive experience, offering participants insights into several medical research fields and exposing them to a spectrum of career opportunities in science from a diverse group of IU experts. During the first day of the program, the students listened to several presentations from IU faculty about their respective disciplines, and on the second day, attendees actively participated in hands-on laboratory work alongside IU and Wells Center scientists, gaining practical experience using real-world techniques.
As MMIA aims to inspire, many participants complete the two-day program with an enhanced appreciation for research and an eagerness to pursue their scientific aspirations.
“I love the field of biology and want to pursue research as part of my undergrad,” said Owen Nichols, a 2024 MMIA participant and current student at the Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics, and Humanities. “Being able to do part of an experiment and listening to professionals talk about their research were my favorite parts of the experience and made me excited about what’s in store after high school.”
Many participants, like Leiah Goodin from New Palestine High School, also take the opportunity to build lasting connections with peers and specialists while they’re on the IU School of Medicine campus. Goodin enjoyed networking with several Department of Pediatrics faculty and trainees as she hopes to become a pediatric surgeon.
“I learned a lot about pediatrics during MMIA, and now I have connections with doctors I may be able to shadow at Riley Hospital for Children in the future,” Goodin said.
The planning and execution that leads to a successful and rewarding experience for high schoolers is a result of many hours of hard work from more than two dozen IU School of Medicine faculty, trainees and staff. Additionally, a valued group of Indiana high school science teachers volunteer as chaperones, offering guidance and support to the participating students throughout the program.
“In addition to our generous funding partners, we’re so grateful to all the IU personnel who support this program year after year, and to the wonderful teacher volunteers who contribute their invaluable personal time and expertise for the student group’s benefit,” Linnemann said.
Support for MMIA includes funding in part from the Riley Children’s Foundation, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research and the IU School of Medicine. Students who are interested in participating in the 2025 program can visit MMIA’s website in the fall to apply.
