The DeBakey Cell Lab summer internship brought together a new group of bright young minds eager to explore the world of biomedical science. Interns were recruited from the University of Houston Honors College as well as high schools across Houston, joining forces for a summer of hands-on learning, lab work, and science communication.
As DeBakey Cell Lab Facilitators, interns didn’t just learn about cells and lab procedures from the sidelines — they ran experiments, guided museum visitors through the lab, and practiced explaining complex science to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Along the way, they took part in professional development sessions with experts from the Texas Medical Center and field trips to some of Houston’s leading medical institutions, gaining a firsthand look at the career paths available in biomedical science.
Communications at the Core
More than anything, this summer’s cohort grew as communicators. They learned to make science accessible, adapt to diverse audiences, think on their feet, and build confidence in their roles as future professionals in health and biomedical science.
Hanlin Li
DeBakey Cell Lab Intern, Summer 2026““One of my favorite parts of the internship was learning how to communicate complex health and science concepts to different audiences. It helped me become more adaptable and feel more confident engaging with people from all walks of life.”
Building Community
Beyond the lab bench, this summer was about the people. Interns spent their weeks working side by side, and what started as a shared schedule grew into real friendships and a shared sense of purpose.
Maimunah Kausar
DeBakey Cell Lab Intern, Summer 2026“My favorite part of this internship was getting to run a lab environment firsthand and guide visitors through fun and interesting experiments. Most of all, I enjoyed the positive environment working alongside my fellow interns and the staff. As we spent most of our summer working together, we developed closer bonds as a group. All in all, I am very grateful to have had this opportunity.”
Anh Tran
DeBakey Cell Lab Intern, Summer 2026“The seven weeks I’ve spent interning at The Health Museum will be an experience I’ll never forget, from working and interacting with guests, building close bonds with the other interns, to field trips around TMC; this opportunity truly solidified my desire to work in healthcare.”
Looking Ahead
Congratulations to all of our 2026 DeBakey Cell Lab interns on a summer well spent. The Health Museum is committed to inspiring the next generation of medical professionals, scientists, and researchers — and this cohort is proof of what’s possible when curious young people are given a real lab, real mentors, and real responsibility.
Stay tuned for future programs and internships at the DeBakey Cell Lab. For questions or to request more information, please get in touch with schalasani@thehealthmuseum.org.