Students attend morning lectures on applied science topics, followed by tours.
Most afternoons are devoted to individual research projects where students gain hands-on experimental, theoretical or computational experience. The projects culminate in poster presentations on the last day of the Institute. The Institute also schedules time for social and recreational activities. There are barbecues and luncheon get-togethers, a softball game, and a trip to San Francisco. There is also a weekend trip to Yosemite for hiking and field observations.