UNM lab gives DVR students hands-on research experience

This summer, a group of New Mexico high school students are stepping into a university research laboratory-not as visitors, but as scientists.

Through a partnership between The University of New Mexico, New Mexico's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), and United Way, students are gaining paid research experience while contributing to an important public health project: monitoring mosquitoes and other insects that can carry diseases affecting both people and agriculture.

Under the mentorship of Jake Greenberg, Lecturer III and Principal Investigator in UNM's Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology and University College, the students are learning the fundamentals of scientific research. Their work includes collecting insect samples throughout central New Mexico, identifying mosquito species, processing specimens in the laboratory, maintaining detailed scientific records, and preparing samples for future disease screening.

The project supports ongoing surveillance efforts for mosquitoes that can transmit diseases such as West Nile virus while also documenting other insects of public health and agricultural importance, including invasive species such as the New World screwworm fly.

For many of the students, this is their first experience working in a university research laboratory.

"Research can seem intimidating until students actually experience it," Greenberg said. "These students quickly realize that science is something they can do as a career. They're making meaningful contributions to a real research project while developing skills that will serve them in college and beyond."

In addition to laboratory techniques, students receive training in scientific communication, teamwork, data collection, laboratory safety, and problem-solving-skills that are valuable regardless of the career path they ultimately choose.

The internship also provides students with an opportunity to explore careers in chemistry, biology, environmental science, public health, and medicine while building confidence through authentic research experiences.

Group photo holding up the Lobo sign.

The partnership demonstrates how universities and community organizations can work together to expand opportunities for New Mexico students. By combining workforce development with research and public service, the program helps students envision themselves as future scientists while addressing issues that directly impact communities across the state.

As mosquito-borne diseases and invasive insect species continue to pose challenges throughout the Southwest, the students' work contributes valuable surveillance data while inspiring the next generation of STEM professionals.

For UNM, the project represents more than scientific research-it reflects the university's commitment to creating pathways into higher education, fostering community partnerships, and preparing students to tackle real-world challenges through science.

Photo caption at the top from left to right: Jake Greenberg, Rachel Mann (a CNM Biotech Intern who helped supervise), Karma, Nehemiah, Edward Donham-Stradling (a Greenberg Research Lab Technician and Faculty member in the School of Business and Management)