Nash Community College is hosting a summer science camp June 23-27 for up to 20 rising seventh- to ninth-graders in Nash County who are interested in participating in laboratory experiments and activities related to biological careers.

Reggie Cobb, Nash Community College biology instructor, will lead the camp. He has participated in various kindergarten through 12th-grader summer science camps in the area.

"Participants will perform many hands-on laboratory and field activities that allow them to use advanced tools and equipment while learning about different fields and careers in biology," he said.

This year's emphasis will include careers in biotechnology, zoology, human and molecular genetics and wildlife biology.

The college provides students with the opportunity to conduct biotechnology research with students and professors at the university level while completing their first two years of college without leaving the area.

The Nash Community College Mathematics & Science Department is growing. Officials said they would like to encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to become educated in the field of biology and would like to help students to have experience in research as they transition from the community college to the university.

Supplies for the laboratory activities were acquired through a grant funded by the Nash Community College Foundation.

Nash Community College is providing equipment and lab facilities in the new Science and Technology Center. The camp fee is $30 (nonrefundable) per participant and will help with instructional costs. Upon completion, participants will receive a certificate of achievement.

If more than 20 students are interested, ninth-graders will receive priority and selection will be random.

Rising seventh- to ninth-graders interested in attending this camp should contact Reggie Cobb at 451-8346 or by e-mail at rcobb@nashcc.edu by May 16.

Students should provide their name, address, phone number, grade level and the school he or she attends.