A maximum of 25 students are selected in each science area. Selection is based upon student's interest in and aptitude for learning science and math. Selection criteria include performance in science and math courses, two letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors, and a brief essay written by the student. Attempts are made to achieve maximum diversity and geographic representation. A brief outline of subject matter in the areas follows.
Mankind is at the threshold of new powers that are unlike any innovations ever faced before.
The realization that scientists might be able to manipulate the genetics of not only the microorganisms, animals and plants, but also of our own species, has led to much soul-searching and raised a multitude of social and ethical concerns. It will soon be possible to mass-screen large human populations and human embryos for detection and possible cure of genetic ailments. Manipulation of the human embryo to correct genetic defects, or for any other purpose, involves the same techniques as the manipulation of a sheep or a goat embryo for the production of human pharmaceuticals in its milk. Cloning of a sheep uses the same technology as the potential cloning of a human being. While these technologies have raised the hopes of a healthy human race, they have also created the specters of superhuman and subhuman clones, thus leading to a plethora of social, political, ethical and moral questions.