STEM Program

Mapping Life Through Data: Exploring Biomedical Research and Scientific Writing in the AI Era

Faculty Advisor: Postdoctoral Researcher, Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth College

Research Program Introduction

Do you trust the numbers you see? Or do they merely tell the story others want you to believe? In the age of ChatGPT and generative AI, data is both our compass and our illusion. This Research Practicum in Data and Communication invites students to uncover the human side of data—how we question it, interpret it, and transform it into meaningful insight.

Using publicly available datasets and tools like R and Python, students will build their own analytical pipelines and explore questions such as: What makes data trustworthy? How do algorithms shape perception

By the end of the practicum, students will produce an 8–12 page research paper presenting original findings and submit it to a peer-reviewed high school journal such as the National High School Journal of Science (NHSJS). Perfect for aspiring data scientists, researchers, or physicians, this program sharpens analytical and communication skills essential for success in college and beyond.

Topics Coverd In Seminars:

  • Introduction to biomedical datasets and scientific computing

  • Explore major databases such as the Cancer Genome Atlas, UK Biobank, and Allen Brain Atlas

  • Learn how to organize and write research papers for peer-reviewed journals.

  • Data ingestion, wrangling, and visualization using R and Python

  • Developing Data-Driven Insights from Real-World Datasets

  • Understand how to document methods, ensure accuracy, and prepare work for publication

  • Presentation and discussion of individual research projects

  • Learn how to present published research in applications and future studies

Program Details

  • Cohort size: 3 to 6 students

  • Workload: Around 4 to 5 hours per week (including class and homework time)

  • Target students: 9-12th grade students interested in scientific academic writing, particularly those eager to explore or pursue STEM research, data-driven inquiry, or medicine in college or future careers.

  • Schedule: TBD. Meetings will take place for around one hour per week, with a weekly meeting day and time to be determined a few weeks before the start date.