HeartQuest is part of the Edwards Lifesciences Foundation Cardiovascular Innovation & Research Center (CIRC) in the School of Engineering and is an intensive nine-day program that immerses motivated high school students in the science and practice of cardiovascular research. Most students begin research without formal training in what it means to do research, what is expected from them, or how to conduct research. To address this need, HeartQuest blends university-level instruction and ‘choose your own adventure’ style research projects to teach how the heart, blood vessels, and blood sustain life while building technical, analytical, and communication skills essential for research. By the end of the program, students will:

1) Understand core cardiovascular physiology through the lens of an engineer.

2) Learn fundamental laboratory techniques and practice analyzing and interpreting data.

3) Critically evaluate primary literature and communicate their findings.

4) Develop a clear roadmap for pursuing research in college.

This curriculum was designed to build the skills that UC Irvine faculty value when onboarding new undergraduate researchers. More information and a tentative schedule can be found here.