The students are housed in a UNH dormitory under the supervision of a Hall Director and resident assistants who organize evening cultural and recreational activities for group participation. Students stay on campus from Sunday evening through Friday afternoon. No weekend stay is arranged. The use of personal automobiles during the Summer Institute is not permitted. 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.