
Turn Your Curiosity into Discovery
Are you a high school student fascinated by the mysteries of DNA, the potential of genetic engineering, or the idea of solving real-world problems through science? At Alamo BioCenter, we offer the perfect opportunity to explore your interests, expand your skills, and get hands-on experience in the cutting-edge field of biotechnology.

Why Join BioSpark?
Hands-On Learning & Exploration
Step into a state-of-the-art biotech lab and experience real-world scientific discovery. Through engaging, hands-on experiments, you'll:
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Conduct advanced biotechnology techniques, including DNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, and microbial culturing.
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Work alongside peers and mentors, solving scientific challenges through collaboration and critical thinking.
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Gain practical lab experience, preparing you for future academic and professional opportunities.
Shape Your Future in Biotech
Colleges and universities value students who take initiative in STEM fields. BioSpark gives you a competitive edge by:
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Awarding a certificate of completion to enhance your college applications.
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Developing key skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and communication.
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Providing direct access to mentors and industry experts to help guide your next steps in science and biotechnology.
Take the first step toward your future in biotech—BioSpark is your gateway to innovation, discovery, and career readiness!
Is BioSpark for You?
Are you a high school student in San Antonio or the surrounding area with a passion for science? If so, BioSpark is the perfect opportunity to explore the exciting world of biotechnology!
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Ideal Candidates:
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Currently enrolled in high school with good academic standing (unofficial transcript required).
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Curious about biotech, medicine, or life sciences and eager to gain hands-on lab experience.
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Excited to work in a real lab, collaborate with peers, and solve scientific challenges.
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No prior lab experience? No problem! We welcome all experience levels and provide the support you need to succeed.
Spots are limited — Apply now!

FAQs
If your question is not answered below, please email us at info@alamobiocenter.com and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Do we need official transcript to apply?
You may submit an unofficial transcript when applying. However, we ask that you request your official transcript from your school and ensure it is sent to us before the program orientation day.
What is BCSI Certification?
During the bootcamp, students will gain hands-on experience in various lab skills. Additionally, they have the option to take an on-site micro-credentialing exam offered by the Bioscience Core Skills Institute (BCSI), a third-party evaluator. An external assessor, independent of the bootcamp instructors, will evaluate students' proficiency in key lab skills.
This certification is optional, and students who choose to participate will need to pay an additional fee of $20 per microcredential. The four microcredentials offered are:
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Lab Safety
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Documentation & SOP (Standard Operating Procedures)
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Quantitative Lab Skills
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Lab Cleanup & Maintenance
Because not all students may want to take this certification, it is not included in the general bootcamp schedule but will be available as an additional opportunity.
What will the schedule look like?
BioSpark follows a progressive learning model, where each day builds upon the previous day's experiments:
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Day 1: Introduction to lab safety and essential protocols
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Day 2: Microbiology techniques and hands-on culturing
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Day 3: DNA isolation using samples from Day 1's experiment
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Day 4: Introduction to bioinformatics and scientific databases for experimental design
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Day 5: Data analysis, teamwork, and presentation skills—students will compile results, interpret findings, and present their work
Unlike traditional classroom learning, students won’t just read about experiments—they will design, conduct, and analyze their own. This immersive approach helps students connect concepts and understand how different techniques integrate in real-world biotech research.
Why is the course fee high?
BioSpark uses high-school-safe biotech kits from a third-party vendor, developed specifically to ensure student safety while providing an authentic lab experience. These kits, along with high-quality reagents and materials, make up a significant portion of the program cost.
Additionally, students will be guided by highly qualified instructors, many of whom hold PhDs in advanced scientific fields. These experts have extensive experience mentoring high school students and understand the gaps in traditional science education. BioSpark is designed to fill those gaps, providing students with an unmatched, real-world biotech learning experience that is often unavailable in school labs or traditional internship programs.
Why is the form asking me to sign in?
Signing in with Gmail ensures that your uploaded transcript remains secure and protected. This authentication helps us maintain the privacy of your information while allowing you to safely submit necessary documents.
Is the program open to Freshmen?
Yes! BioSpark is open to all high school students, including freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
How long is the program?
BioSpark is a five-day intensive program, with each day focusing on a different segment: Lab Safety, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, and Bioinformatics. On the final day, students will present their findings, showcasing their hands-on research and analytical skills.
Will This program be offered again in the future?
This is the first time BioSpark is being offered in this format during Spring Break. While no future sessions are currently scheduled, we hope to expand based on interest and demand. Stay connected for updates on potential future offerings!