Creating Excellence in Leadership in Science (CELS) - a mentoring program for undergraduate students at UW-Madison, founded by the CMB Graduate Program Diversity Committee. 

Purpose of CELS...
•    Introduce undergraduate students in the biological sciences to the culture of science and the laboratory research atmosphere

•    Establish a mentoring relationship with graduate students pursuing their PhD in the biological sciences

•    Give students the tools and resources required to be successful in a research career

•    Build and strengthen the skills required to successfully complete a bachelors degree in the biological sciences

•    Introduce and increase awareness of campus programs and services available

•    Provide career and professional development opportunities about science careers and graduate school

CELS Program Overview...

•    Monthly large group meetings with graduate students 

•    One on one or small group mentoring sessions with graduate students 

Who Can Participate in CELS...

•    Students who are African-American, Hispanic, Native American, Southeast Asian, Native Alaskan or Native Pacific Islander are encouraged to participate

•    Students currently in their first, second, or third year who have an interest in the biological sciences, particularly in research

•    The CELS Program will be limited to the first 20 students who are interested in participating

Why Participate in CELS...

•    Learn important tools and skills to succeed in a scientific culture

•    Make connections to campus programs and services

•    One on one interaction with graduate student mentors

•    Participate in a community of fellow undergraduates interested in science and research

Who We Are...

•    Graduate students currently pursuing full time research toward a PhD in the biological sciences who are interested in increasing research opportunities for underrepresented minority students

•    The foundation of the CELS Program stems from the efforts of the Cellular & Molecular Biology (CMB) Graduate Program Diversity Committee created in 2006

•    Members of the CMB Diversity Committee include: Idella Yamben, Daryl Nelson, Amanda Johnson, Lindsey Hoover, Malika Kuzembayeva, Cabell Jonas, Valerie Grant, and Ashley Keels

Download the 2009 CELS Brochure!