HMRI Science Day to Showcase Student Research in Pasadena

Huntington Medical Research Institutes will host its annual Science Day on July 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring more than 25 summer student researchers presenting their work in cardiovascular health and neuroscience.

The free event at the Engemann Family Auditorium, 686 S. Fair Oaks Ave., in Pasadena, celebrates HMRI’s 70-year legacy of science education. Visitors can tour research facilities.

Student Research Presentations

Student poster presentations will run throughout the four-hour event, allowing attendees to interact with the cohort of researchers. Students work on projects related to cardiovascular disease and neuroscience through HMRI’s educational programs.

The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program has benefited more than 600 students through hands-on biomedical research and mentorship. SURF, along with HMRI’s partner program — American Heart Association Supporting Undergraduate Research Experience, started June 16 and runs until Aug. 8.

HMRI also hosts a six-week High School STEM Program for rising juniors and seniors from Pasadena Unified School District. The 2025 program provides weekly exploration of new scientific topics, independent research projects, mentorship and CPR certification from the American Heart Association.

Alumni Panel Discussion

A special highlight includes an Alumni Recognition and Panel Discussion from noon to 1 p.m., moderated by HMRI President and CEO Dr. Julia Bradsher. The panel will feature distinguished HMRI alumni who became leaders in the biomedical industry, educators and civic leaders.

Research Focus Areas

HMRI’s research centers on cardiovascular health, mental wellness and brain aging. The Cardiovascular Research Laboratory is led by Dr. Robert Kloner, chief science officer and director of cardiovascular research.

HMRI neuroscientists work on diagnostic biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, aiming to detect symptoms before they appear. They also investigate the biological basis of mental illnesses that arise in neurodevelopment.

The Institute traces its origins to the Pasadena Foundation for Medical Research established in 1952, with the current organization formed through mergers completed in 1982. Since then, the institute has been at the forefront of groundbreaking innovations that have changed the world — from seatbelts to the MRI and cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment protocols for prostate cancer.

Under Bradsher’s leadership since 2018, HMRI has grown its operational budget from $8 million to $14 million in 2023. Passionate about educating future generations of scientists, Nicole Purcell serves as associate professor of cardiovascular research and scientific director of education programs.

Previous Science Day events have drawn approximately 150 parents, professionals and teachers. Admission is free, but advance registration is recommended through HMRI’s website at hmri.org/events.

For questions, contact HMRI’s development team at development@hmri.org or (626) 389-3408.