Frequently asked questions
What is MoxieScientist?
MoxieScientist is an entirely online research program specifically designed for high school students and high-achieving curious minds.
What kind of research does MoxieScientist do?
MoxieScientist does Computational chemistry research, especially inclined towards drug discovery. Students interested in pursuing a STEM major would highly benefit from our program.
What is the duration of the research program at MoxieScientist?
MoxieScientist offers an intensive 10-week summer research program. We also offer Fall, Spring and Academic year programs.
Is the program only for High School students?
Our program is mainly geared towards high school students. Our 10-week intensive summer research program mainly targets junior and senior students in high school.
Are all applicants accepted?
Unfortunately, no. We have a selective interview process, based on which we select our students. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.6 out of 4 is required to be accepted to our program. We want our students to be committed to research and be able to produce high-quality research by the end of the program.
Is prior research experience required?
No. Most high school students will not have research experience. We give them the experience that they require. We only look for curiosity and commitment.
How is the selection process?
Selection is based on GPA and an interview.
What will be asked in the interview?
There would be a mix of questions to understand the applicant’s interest in research and to probe their subjective knowledge and readiness for research.
Will there be a scientific publication by the end of the program?
Depending on the quality and novelty of research work and the time attributed to research, each student’s efforts will be evaluated for a potential publication in a high school research journal. Having said that, publishing a research paper is not an easy task, the reason we ask our students to be committed to research is to produce high-quality research that can stand up to the rigor of publishing the scientific work. There are many factors to be considered before the research paper can be published. High-quality work and articulate writing skills are some of the aspects in which the assigned mentor would be guiding the students to achieve their best. However, student's commitment to the research project and time management are also major factors that are needed for a quality publication. Publication charges, if any, would be handled by the student.
Will there be an opportunity for students to present their research findings?
Yes. The students will be required to write a research manuscript and present their findings in an internal presentation by the end of our program.
How does MoxieScientist research program work?
Our research program is a completely remote program, which can be performed with a high-speed internet connection. We hold classes for all students weekly to help them understand the background and the software used for research. We will also hold one-on-one sessions weekly with each student for their specific research task. Each student is expected to submit a weekly report online using the electronic lab notebook that will be briefed to students.
How are online classes conducted?
Online sessions are offered via Google Meet or zoom. All sessions are recorded and will be available for students till the end of their chosen program time.
What if there is a conflict with classes and meetings offered by MoxieScientist?
We always keep students' schedules in mind while preparing our class/ meeting schedules. We do however understand that there might be conflicts due to schedule changes in high school. We usually try to accommodate schedule changes if informed in advance.
What would students gain from this research program?
Upon successfully finishing the program, students will be expected to write and submit a college-level research paper, approximately 20 pages in length. This allows students to enhance their writing skills and equips them with the ability to analyze academic journal articles. All students completing the research paper on time will be awarded a certificate of completion. Exceptional students who demonstrate outstanding performance may even be eligible to secure letters of recommendation or explore opportunities for external recognition, such as participating in symposiums, and science fairs, or having their work published in high school journals.
Is the program completely online?
Yes. Our program is completely virtual. Students might have to use specific software for their research which will be guided by your research mentor.
Is there a fee associated with MoxieScientist?
Yes. Please submit your interest using the interest form and we will provide you the details.