Explore the amazing potential of the human brain, learn about biomedical engineering at Saint Louis University, gain hands-on experience in the medical field with our Simulation Lab, and discover the fascinating world of forensic science. AIMS provides programs for middle and high school students, as well as those in college, nursing schools, tech schools, CNA and OTA programs and other levels.
Brain Awareness with Paul Young, M.D.
"Adolescent drug use and subsequent addiction have reached epidemic levels, with average age of first-time use in our region (legal cannabis!) now age 13-14. The data shows that kids who try marijuana in their early teenage years are many times more likely to develop a mental health illness or become an overdose statistic. Adolescent addiction, death and mental health disorders have touched every segment of our society. In my career as a neurosurgeon, I have witnessed this tragedy with increasing frequency, and personally, I have had four close family members die suddenly from illicit drugs contaminated with fentanyl, all within the past few years. All of them were introduced to cannabis in their early teenage years as a 'safer' option to tobacco, alcohol and other substances. And likely related, the addiction to and mental health consequences of social media use among our youth have become alarming, as recently noted in warnings from US Surgeon General" - Vivek Murthy, M.D.
"I am certain there are few, if any, academic institutions in our region (at any level) that have not witnessed and sought solutions for these most consequential afflictions. As a lifelong disciple of the amazing potential of the human brain, it is particularly difficult for me to accept this devastating loss of our precious youth. As an educator it has been my experience that knowledge is an avenue proven to lead to better choices; as such, if our youth better understand the magnificent workings of the human brain, perhaps we will soon witness a flattening of these curves.
To accomplish this, I have prepared presentations (60-90 minutes with time for questions) on brain awareness accompanied by real human brain specimens, individually geared toward 7th and 8th graders, high school levels 9, 10, 11 and 12, teachers/administrators/counselors and parents. My goal is simple: to impress on each group the awesome nature of the human brain (and its unlimited potential) and to detail the pitfalls, choices and situations that can temporarily or very often permanently derail it." - Paul Young, M.D.
Dr. Young can bring this amazing presentation directly to your school or program at no charge to you.
Biomedical Engineering at SLU
Combining the design and problem-solving skills of engineering with medical and biological sciences to advance healthcare and improve patient quality of life, biomedical engineering has something for any student interested in a combination of mathematics, life science and technology.
The Biomedical Engineering Program at Saint Louis University partners with the AIMS program to bring students the opportunity to learn first-hand about the amazing field of biomedical engineering and its role in healthcare and modern medicine. A biomedical engineering lecture followed by a hands-on lab to show students what a career in biomedical engineering might look like.
For more information regarding SLU's biomedical engineering program, email amy.preis@slu.edu.
Learn More about SLU's Program
Simulation Lab
Saint Louis University School of Medicine offers a unique field trip opportunity for local high school groups interested in healthcare. Students will have the chance to use surgical simulation equipment under the guidance of residents and physicians from the university. Due to room limitations, groups are limited to 20 students and four weeks’ notice is required for scheduling. The cost is $10 per student. This is a great opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in the medical field.
Forensic Science
Register now for our 2024 Forensic Science Workshop to be held 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., on February 19, 2024 at Young Hall.
Forensic science is the scientific method of gathering and analyzing evidence. The forensic science major at Saint Louis University is an interdisciplinary program that employs the methods, tools and perspectives of biology, chemistry, anthropology, sociology, physics, mathematics and medicine to better understand the intersection of law and science.
Learn More about Forensic Science at SLU
AIMS is honored to partner with the forensic science department here at Saint Louis University to bring students a better understanding of the fascinating world of forensic science.
For more information regarding our Forensic Science program at Saint Louis University, please email erik.hall@slu.edu.