The Albert Einstein College of Medicine has opened the IGNITE (Inspiring Growth in Next Generation Investigation, Training and Education) community teaching lab, the first of its kind in The Bronx. College officials said the state-of-the-art research lab provides high school and college students in Einstein’s pathway programs and across The Bronx with opportunities to experience science through hands-on learning and discovery.

 

They said the IGNITE lab, funded by a bequest from an Einstein alumnus, will serve more than 650 students annually through the College of Medicine’s 22 pathway programs, aimed at inspiring the next generation of scientists, physicians, and healthcare professionals. College officials went on to say that it will also deepen partnerships with educators from local schools and community organizations seeking to bring more hands-on science into their classrooms.

 

Lynne M. Holden, M.D., senior associate dean for community engagement and outreach at the College said at the grand opening on July 15, “Talent is everywhere, but opportunity has not always been. The IGNITE lab is how we begin to change that.”

 

According to the College, the lab has already welcomed its first students through Einstein’s “BEYOND ALBERT” summer research program, where Bronx high school students used the space for hands-on lab training and research-readiness activities.

“At Einstein, scientific discovery goes hand in hand with education and outreach,” said Yaron Tomer, M.D., chief academic officer at Montefiore Einstein and the Marilyn and Stanley M. Katz dean. “This new lab reflects our commitment to expanding access to science education, particularly for students across The Bronx. My hope is that every student who walks into the IGNITE lab leaves believing a career in science and medicine is within reach,” he added.

 

College officials said the new 700-square-foot space is a fully equipped laboratory where students can learn foundational molecular biology techniques and work with mentors while using modern scientific instruments, including microscopes, incubators, and centrifuges.

 

Lester W. Young, Jr., Ed.D., chancellor of the New York State Board of Regents, said of the new lab, “Today we are lighting a spark, a spark of discovery, of learning, of opportunity and hope that will ignite the talents, aspirations, and determination of young people throughout The Bronx and beyond. Pathways do not build themselves; they are built with intentionality, through vision, partnership, and a shared commitment to ensuring that each and every young person has access to the opportunities they need.”

 

Addressing the students directly, Young added, “It’s one thing to be looked at, but it’s another thing to be seen. You are seen. You belong here. Your questions matter. Your ideas matter. Your voice matters, and your future matters.”

 

Key partners, donors, and community leaders attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, including Young, Ruth Gottesman, Ed.D., chair emerita of the Einstein Board of Trustees, Stuart Spodek, chair of the Einstein Board of Trustees, Shirley Aldebol, New York City Council Member (C.D. 13), Aramina Vega Ferrer, Ph.D., regent for the 12th Judicial District on the New York State Board of Regents, and Charissa Fernández, president of the Gray Foundation. More than 75 students in several Einstein pathway programs also attended.

 

As reported, in February 2024, medical students at Montefiore’s Albert Einstein College of Medicine learned that they would be receiving free tuition in perpetuity thanks to a gift from Gottesman.

For her part, Anne Bresnick, Ph.D., associate dean for postdoctoral affairs and associate director, cancer research training and education at Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center, said, “Today we cut a ribbon, but more importantly, we open a door, the door to discovery, opportunity, and the next generation of scientists and health professionals.”

 

Norwood News had previously reported on a recognition for exceptional care earned by Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center’s lung cancer team. We also recently reported on Montefiore’s Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) program for first-time moms, and on a visit of pediatric patients at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore by New York City ballet dancers.

 

For some more coverage of Montefiore’s work in the community and in general, click here, here, here