BMRC 2025 Summer Student Research Program Recap

In August 2025, the Orland Bethel Family Musculoskeletal Research Center (BMRC) wrapped up its 2025 Summer Student Research Program (SSRP), a nine-week training experience for undergraduate and medical students interested in musculoskeletal research.

Each year, the SSRP offers students from the University of Pittsburgh and institutions nationwide a hands-on opportunity to work in BMRC labs. Participants are paired with faculty and trainees for daily lab work, gaining experience in experimental design, data analysis, and the day-to-day realities of the research process. Weekly seminars led by BMRC Core Scientists complement the lab component and provide additional training in scientific communication and professional development.

The program concluded with the annual Poster Presentation Day, where students presented their research to BMRC investigators, mentors, and invited guests, including members of the Bethel Family. Many participants cited the independence they gained in the lab and the collaborative culture of the BMRC as defining aspects of their experience. Several will continue their work in BMRC-affiliated labs this fall.

“Our goal is to provide meaningful research experiences, but what students gain goes beyond the lab work. They leave with skills in interpreting scientific literature, experimental troubleshooting, and science communication that will serve them wherever their path leads,” says Laurie Dearolf, PhD, operations manager for the BMRC.

Poster topics reflected the diversity of research across the Center and included projects in:

• Cell signaling
• Bacterial biofilms
• Tissue regeneration
• Biomechanics
• Bacteriophage therapy
• Assay development.

To learn more, visit www.bethel.pitt.edu.