01/26/2026
The college-age Native Explorers program offers guided exploration of the natural world to Native American college students. Participants will travel with a team of Native American research scientists, educators, and physicians on a scientific and cultural expedition!
Native Explorers Program Objectives:
-Introduce American Indians to careers in science and medicine.
-Increase the number of American Indians who earn degrees in science and medicine.
-Expand knowledge of traditional ways and culture.
-Create impactful networks of scientists and physicians in federal programs (National Park Service), state agencies (museums and universities), and sovereign nations (federally recognized tribes).
Activities:
-Work side-by-side with Native American scientists, physicians, and students (graduate and medical).
-Explore anatomy by comparing diseased and normal organs (lungs, hearts, brains, bones).
-Identify fossil remains and learn techniques used by vertebrate paleontologists.
-Study healthy lifestyles and medicine.
-Experience Native traditions and culture.
-Gain primitive camping and survival skills.
Application deadline: February 1 by 5:00 p.m.
Application: https://applyhealth.okstate.edu/register/Native-Explorers
Program Dates: May 18-23, 2026
College Course Credit: Successful applicants are eligible to earn three (3) hours of upper-division college credit.
Requirements: 18 years old or older, member of federally recognized Tribe, and interest in medicine or science.
Contact:
Kent Smith, Ph.D.
Associate Dean/Professor of Anatomy
[email protected]
Jeff Hargrave, JD
Executive Director, Native Explorers Foundation
[email protected]
