Programs
At NeuroEngage, we design and lead evidence-based programs that make neuroscience accessible, inclusive, and inspiring. Through national competitions, immersive camps, research training, and community partnerships, we engage learners of all ages and train the next generation of scientists, educators, and leaders. Grounded in data and driven by equity, our initiatives create pathways for students, teachers, and communities to explore brain science and see themselves as part of its future.
K-12 programs
UCI Brain Camp is a two-week summer program for middle and high school students that combines interactive lectures, hands-on labs, and research projects to spark curiosity about the brain and behavior.
The Brain Explorer Academy is an NIH-funded after-school program that introduces high school students to neuroscience through interactive lectures, hands-on demonstrations and experiments to prepare them for STEM disciplines in college and careers in science.
The Irvine Brain Bee is a chapter of the USA Brain Bee, a neuroscience competition for high school students. Participants test their knowledge of the brain through written, practical, and oral challenges, with winners advancing to compete at the national level.
Through our School Visits program, we partner with schools across Southern California to give students a hands-on introduction to neuroscience. Classes are invited into the lab for a day of interactive activities, tours, and conversations with scientists. These visits spark curiosity, break down barriers to higher education, and help students envision themselves as future scientists.
SCYNA is a youth-led organization that creates opportunities for students across Southern California to engage with neuroscience outside the classroom. Through workshops, events, and peer-to-peer networks, SCYNA empowers young people to explore brain science, develop leadership skills, and build community with like-minded peers who share a passion for discovery.
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The USA Brain Bee is the national championship of the Brain Bee network, bringing together winners from regional competitions across the country. Participants showcase their knowledge of the brain through written, practical, and oral challenges, and the national champion advances to represent the United States at the World Brain Bee.
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Undergraduate and graduate training
The Ambassador Program is the volunteer engine of our outreach efforts. The program includes nearly 100 undergraduate students, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows led by committee chairs. Together, they form a vibrant community of emerging scientists and educators committed to making neuroscience accessible, inclusive, and impactful.
The Irvine Summer Institute in Neuroscience, funded by the National Science Foundation and the University of California Office of the President is an immersive summer residential program that provides undergraduate students with hands-on laboratory research, professional development, and dedicated mentorship to prepare them for graduate study and careers in neuroscience.
An NIH-funded training progrma that supports graduate students in neuroscience with research opportunities, professional development, and community engagement to prepare them for leadership in science.
National initiatives
A national seminar and workshop series that brings together educators, scientists, and outreach professionals to share strategies, build collaborations, and advance the field of neuroscience engagement.
NeuroBridges is a partnership between UCI’s Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM) and the nonprofit NeuroBoricuas. The program empowers Puerto Rican scientists and youth by providing educational and research opportunities, mentorship, and networking with UCI graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and faculty. Through these connections, NeuroBridges strengthens pathways into neuroscience and supports the development of the next generation of leaders in Puerto Rico’s scientific community.
Our partners in action
This work is only possible through strong partnerships. We collaborate with schools, nonprofits, and community organizations that share our mission of making neuroscience accessible for all. Together, we bring brain science into classrooms, support families, and create opportunities for students to engage with discovery.
Featured partners
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