Michigan Health Sciences Undergraduate Research Academy

Opportunity Description:


Diversity is essential in addressing today’s health disparities - from the students who train to become tomorrow’s scientists and physicians, to the patients who will benefit from their research and care. The Michigan Health Sciences Undergraduate Research Academy (MHSURA) is designed for undergraduate students who want to explore biomedical research and health professional career pathways in a stimulating and inclusive environment.

Approximately 20 fellows will be chosen to participate in a 10-week program at the University of Michigan Medical School. A stipend, housing, and meal plan will be provided. The program dates for 2022 are May 31 to August 6.

As a MHSURA fellow, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Choose between a research or a clinical fellowship experience
  • Be matched with a faculty mentor based on your career interests
  • Join other fellows for a unique experience
  • Gain additional insight and understanding of health disparities
  • Learn about a broad spectrum of career options in health sciences
  • Participate in leadership and professional development seminars
  • Exhibit your research or clinical experience at a University of Michigan symposium attended by faculty, staff and students at the end of the program

Minimum Qualifications and/or Eligibility Requirements: 

Applicants must fulfill the following eligibility requirements:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident 
  • At least 18 years old prior to the start of the program 
  • Have a valid U.S. social security number 
  • Enrolled full time at an accredited community college or four-year institution 
  • Applicant must demonstrate a socioeconomic disadvantage, educational disadvantage or desire to work in underserved communities 
  • A minimum 3.0 cumulative and science GPA of 3.0 

Students may not take academic classes or be engaged in other activities that would prevent them from attending all training sessions.  The program includes numerous evening and limited weekend activities designed to build community and awareness. 

Applicants will be evaluated based on the following factors: 

  • Demonstrated development relative to the AAMC Core Competencies(link is external)(link is external) 
  • Personal and academic accomplishments 
  • Successful completion of college-level biology and chemistry courses 
  • Demonstrated interest in a career in medicine or biomedical research 
  • Demonstrated leadership and commitment to helping underserved populations 
  • Responses to essay questions 

This program is open to all students with an interest in medicine and health equality.  Applicants from underrepresented groups in medicine, rural and socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Application Process: 

A completed application includes: 

  • Submitted online application 
  • A minimum of two letters of recommendation, with at least one coming from a science faculty member/instructor 
  • Official or unofficial transcript from your institution(s) 

Once your application has been successfully submitted, you can track the status of your recommendation letters on your application profile page. The applicant is responsible for ensuring that all required recommendation letters are received by the deadline.

Application Deadline: 

Thursday, February 3, 2022
For more information on this opportunity, please contact: