CURRICULUM:
Monday through Friday sessions will have UCI COSMOS students investigating and learning around a set of topics distinctly outside the normal range of high school mathematics and science, but presented in a way to be accessible. Tuesdays and Thursdays are typically lab/field days. With support from private foundations, we have engaged high school science and mathematics teachers to share their expertise. Each cluster also features Technical Writing and Communication, which gives students the opportunity to draft a technical/scientific abstract, develop their presentations, and ask questions and receive guidance. Click here for the 2008 COSMOS Handbook (pdf).

PROJECT/PRESENTATION REQUIREMENT:
All participants, working in pairs or small groups, will produce a scientific/engineering project drawn from the subject matter in their cluster. Projects may be based upon field study during COSMOS. In addition, students will present their findings in either a poster format or an oral presentation to faculty and peers.

DAILY SCHEDULE:
Students take two science or math-based courses plus science communications, attend lectures MWF with corresponding labs or fieldtrips on Tues/Thurs. Click here to see the general schedule (pdf).

SPECIAL TOPICS LECTURES:
Distinguished faculty and researchers from UC and other institutions are invited to present on their current research and areas of expertise. 2009 LECTURES:

• July 2: Mathematics
  DR. ARTHUR BENJAMIN, Professor of Mathematics, Harvey Mudd College, Claremont, CA
  Witness Dr. Benjamin's amazing abilities of rapid mental calculation -- he can arrive at answers faster than you can enter data into your calculator. Dr. Benjamin's "Mathemagics" amazes audiences around the world. He entertains and enlightens students with his amazing feats, and will share secrets of doing complex mental math using his unique system of visualizing and hearing numbers. He will demonstrate the magic square - and encourage students to "try this at home."
• July 9: Your Resume, Your Image
  MR. ROBERT GOMEZ, Assistant Director, UCI Career Center
  During this presentation you will learn effective ways to build your resume, and reflect the image that has potential employers calling you for an interview.  Presenting yourself in the electronic age offers new challenges in how you will make that all-important first impression. What is the music and message on your cell phone? Are you turning potential employers off? What do you say about yourself on MySpace or Facebook and how does your page reflect your character and your career goals? Be prepared to put your best image forward, whether applying for a volunteer position with a public or private agency or an internship with a technology company.
• July 16: The Science of Superman
  DR. MICHAEL DENNIN, Professor of Physics, University of California, Irvine
  Can Superman really fly? What really happens to Lois Lane when he grabs her in mid-air? What about Spiderman's amazing powers? Why does the Hulk turn green? Come find out the science behind these and other amazing super powers. Which ones are plausible and which violate fundamental laws of physics. Come ready to ask about your favorite super hero or power!
• July 23: The Water Energy Nexus
  DR. WILLIAM COOPER, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering; Director Urban Water Research Center, University of California, Irvine
  Water scarcity, climate change, and issues related to our "carbon footprint" are constantly in the headlines.  How is climate change affecting our oceans and our coastal waters? What is the global community doing about it? You will hear some of the compelling issues surrounding the rise in sea level, the affects on coral reefs and island nations. The use of remote sensing of water resources, and "leapfrog" technologies will be discussed. As a citizen of the planet, what action can you take?

ACADEMIC AND RECREATIONAL FIELDTRIPS:
COSMOS features academic and recreational fieldtrips. Students will take advantage of the resources offered within UCI's geographical region. High tech site visits may include UCI research centers and laboratories related to the clusters.

COSMOS FACULTY ADVISORY COMMITTEE:
The COSMOS program engages faculty and researchers to guide the curriculum, and contribute to the overall goals of COSMOS for an intensive academic experience that challenges and enriches students.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
Dr. Derek Dunn-Rankin, Professor, Mechanical &Aerospace Engineering, Henry Samueli School of Engineering
Dr. Michael Leon, Associate Dean and Professor, Biological Sciences, School of Biological Sciences
Dr.  John Lowengrub, Chair and Professor, Department of Mathematics, School of Physical Sciences
Dr. Tammy Smecker-Hane, Professor, Physics and Astronomy, School of Physical Sciences
Dr. Stanley Tyler, Research Scientist, Earth System Science, School of Physical Sciences