Comunicado de prensa
Einstein Opens IGNITE Community Teaching Lab to Expand Access to Science Education in the Bronx
July 24, 2026 (BRONX, NY)
Einstein leaders, faculty members, and past and present leaders of the board of trustees, were among those at the IGNITE laboratory ribbon-cutting ceremony
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. 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.
The IGNITE Lab
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, which are aimed at inspiring the next generation of scientists, physicians, and healthcare professionals. It will also deepen partnerships with educators from local schools and community organizations seeking to bring more hands-on science into their classrooms. 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. "Talent is everywhere, but opportunity has not always been. The IGNITE lab is how we begin to change that," said Lynne M. Holden, M.D., senior associate dean for community engagement and outreach, at the grand opening on July 15, 2026.
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. “At Einstein, scientific discovery goes hand in hand with education and outreach,” said Yaron Tomer, M.D., the Marilyn and Stanley M. Katz Dean at Einstein and chief academic officer at Montefiore Einstein. “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.”
Lester W. Young, Jr., Ed.D., chancellor of the New York State Board of Regents, delivers the keynote
Key partners, donors, and community leaders attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, including Ruth Gottesman, Ed.D., chair emerita of the Einstein Board of Trustees; Stuart Spodek, chair of the Einstein Board of Trustees, Lester W. Young, Jr., Ed.D.; chancellor of the New York State Board of Regents; Shirley Aldebol, New York City councilwoman; 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.
“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,” said Dr. Young. “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.” Speaking directly to the students, he 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.”
“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,” concluded Anne Bresnick, Ph.D., associate dean for postdoctoral affairs and associate director, cancer research training and education at Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center.
