Amgen Scholars Programme now taking applications

Amgen has announced that its scholars programme is now accepting applications for the summer of 2008.

Developed in partnership with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and other leading universities around the US, the Amgen Scholars Programme provides undergraduates with the opportunity of hands-on research at ten of America’s premier universities.

The programme allows students to explore an area of research under a faculty mentor which is intended to go beyond their regular undergraduate education, according to the pharmaceutical company.

Jean J Lim, president of the Amgen Foundation, commented: “With the Amgen Scholars program, we challenge undergraduates from across the nation to immerse themselves in the real world of research and to experience first-hand what it takes to contribute to the advancement of knowledge.”

The programme started last year when 238 undergraduates were selected from over 1,700 applicants.

Throughout the summer programme, Amgen scholars are given the opportunity to participate in a variety of university-based research projects as well attending a three-day symposium in California to discuss their research projects and hear from leading scientists across the world.

Also this week, Amgen announced interim results of its phase III clinical study of Aranesp (darbepoetin alfa) as a treatment for breast cancer.