SRF Summer Scholars Program

Opportunity Description:

The SRF Summer Scholars Program offers undergraduate students the opportunity to conduct biomedical research to combat diseases of aging, such as cancer, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's Disease. Under the guidance of a scientific mentor, each Summer Scholar is responsible for his or her own research project in such areas as genetic engineering and stem cell research. The Summer Scholars Program emphasizes development of both laboratory and communication skills to develop well-rounded future scientists, healthcare professionals, and policy makers. Students participating in the program will hone their writing skills via periodic reports, which are designed to emulate text scientists commonly must produce. At the end of the summer, students will have the opportunity to put all of their newly developed communication skills into practice at a student symposium.

Most host institutions can accommodate any start date in May or June to accommodate both semester- and quarter-system students. The internship lasts between 10 and 12 weeks, depending on host institution. Students participating in the program need to locate their own housing. Advice can be provided by SRF and the host lab.

Stipend rates will be based upon levels used by government agencies, such as the NIH and NSF. A single stipend will be provided to cover room and board costs.

Minimum Qualifications and/or Eligibility Requirements: 

Review the following to confirm your eligibility to participate in the program:

1. This program is designed for undergraduate students. Only students who are currently pursuing an undergraduate degree or students who receive their undergraduate degree the during the fall, winter, or spring terms of the 2021-2022 academic year are eligible for the 2022 SRF Summer Scholars Program.
2. Students currently enrolled in a master’s, doctoral, medical, or similar postgraduate degree granting program are ineligible to apply. Similarly, any applicant who has already earned a postgraduate degree is ineligible to apply.
3. Students enrolled in a dual undergrad/grad program are eligible provided no degree has been earned by the start of the internship.
4. The applicant must be enrolled at a university in the United States. Special circumstances, such as established exchange programs, will be considered on a case-by-case basis. U.S. citizens studying abroad are also eligible to apply.
5. Applicants must be eligible to receive a stipend. Students who are studying abroad in the U.S. will need to participate in the Summer Scholars Program through a Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for off-campus employment. Unfortunately, due to the length of time required for approval, we will no longer be able to accept Optional Practical Training (OPT) for off-campus employment. We recommend checking with your department to determine if CPT approval is an option and what forms you need to complete prior to applying to SRF Summer Scholars Program. Verification of your eligibility will be required before a position can be confirmed. You can learn more about CPT requirements here. It will be incumbent upon the student to provide the necessary documentation to participate, not SRF or the host institution.

Additional notes on the qualification requirements:

1. Applicants should have some biologically-related prior research experience.
2. Although GPA will be a consideration, there are no formal GPA requirements.
3. There are no specific major requirements. Students of any major may apply, provided they can demonstrate experience relevant to the project in question.
4. As noted in the Eligibility Requirements section, you must be currently enrolled as an undergraduate student to be eligible for the program. Dual undergrad/grad programs are acceptable, but students who already possess an undergraduate degree are not eligible to participate in the program. The only exception to this rule are students who have graduated during the fall, winter, or spring terms of the 2021-2022 academic year.
5. There are no restrictions to class standing. Freshman, sophomores, juniors, seniors, and fifth year seniors are all eligible to apply.

Application Process: 

The online application will be available on this website on November 17, 2021. Completed applications are due at NOON on Tuesday, February 1, 2022 (12 pm PST 2/1/22). Be sure to ask for your letter of recommendation well in advance to provide sufficient time for it to be submitted.

Finalists will be contacted by Spring 2022.

Application Deadline: