The 20th class of Helios Scholars at TGen have concluded their 2026 internships with a day-long scientific symposium celebrating their accomplishments over the past eight weeks. The symposium marks the finish line for a program designed to help students build practical research skills while working side‑by‑side with TGen scientists and staff. Families, mentors, and community members joined the event to recognize the accomplishments of this year’s Scholars.
The program’s structure blends scientific rigor with mentorship and professional development. Scholars leave with stronger technical skills, clearer communication abilities, and confidence gained from presenting their research to a scientific audience. They also build connections with faculty, staff, and peers that often extend well beyond the summer.
“Twenty years ago, Helios Scholars at TGen opened a door to access, mentorship, and exposure to science that could change lives,” said Kristen Kaus, Director of Education and Outreach at TGen. “Today we recognize each Scholar’s achievements and highlight an important step in their academic and career journeys as they join the 850 scholars who’ve come through the program.”
Since the program’s launch in 2007, alumni have gone on to roles in Arizona’s biomedical research institutions, hospitals, biotech companies, and life‑science organizations. Others have continued into competitive graduate and medical programs across the country.
Geared toward undergraduate, graduate, and medical students, Helios Scholars at TGen offers a hands‑on introduction to biomedical research supported by faculty mentors and experienced laboratory professionals.
This year’s class stands as a testament to the program’s enduring mission: expanding opportunity, cultivating scientific curiosity, and empowering the next generation of innovators.
- Of the 45 Scholars, 5 were recent high school graduates, 39 undergraduates, and 1 graduate student.
- Women comprised 64% of the class, 24% of Scholars were the first in their families to attend college, and 38% identified as underrepresented minorities in the sciences.
- 32 undergraduate students study at Arizona institutions (including 18 at ASU, 4 at NAU, 4 at the University of Arizona, and students from Gateway CC, Glendale CC, and Phoenix College).
In 2026, Helios Scholars at TGen wasn’t just celebrating twenty years, it was preparing students for the next twenty.
As part of the 20th Anniversary programming, TGen created a microsite where viewers can learn more about the history of the Helios Scholars at TGen, as well as view a short feature and video vignettes from previous Scholars, who share their memories and discuss how the program helped advance their careers.
Applications for the 2027 program open in early December. More information is available on TGen’s Education page.