Science
Symphony at Salk
SALK INSTITUTE
Bringing Science to Students
T
he Salk Institute embodies Jonas Salk’s mission
to seek new discoveries in the biological
sciences. Even as they work to combat cancer,
Alzheimer’s disease, aging, diabetes and
more, Salk researchers endeavor to make their
discoveries accessible to the next generation by bringing
groundbreaking science to the San Diego community through
Salk’s Education Outreach program. For nearly 50 years, Salk’s
world-class faculty and staff have imparted their passion and
knowledge onto future scientists.
One prime vehicle for Education Outreach is the Salk Mobile
Science Lab, which travels to middle schools throughout San
Diego County and brings a free, three-day scientific experience
that is unlike anything students can get from a textbook. Students
study fruit flies under a microscope, isolate plant DNA and learn
about techniques of DNA analysis, all hands-on activities proven
to increase students’ interest in biological sciences.
“Science comes alive in the real world for the students,” says
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Linda Love from Hillsdale Middle School in El Cajon. “This
personal influence, plus the opportunity to use real scientific
equipment, has planted seeds will grow into future scientists.”
Since it first hit the road in 1996, the Salk Mobile Science Lab
has reached more than 20,000 students. Many others have been
inspired through additional educational programs Salk offers,
including the Heithoff-Brody Summer Scholars Program, the
March of Dimes High School Science Day, SciChats@Salk and
Partnerships in Science Education.
Just as Salk Education Outreach serves the community, it relies
on the community. Proceeds from the annual Symphony at Salk
concert help support the Institute’s wide-ranging scientific
inquiries and award-winning Education Outreach programs.
The signature concert under the stars takes place this
year on Aug. 25 and features Leslie Odom Jr., the Tony
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