Amgen Scholars Program

Amgen Scholars: At a Glance

Eligibility:

• First (Asia Program), second, third-year, and non-graduating fourth-year students
• Minimum GPA: 3.2 for U.S. Program (strong record of academic performance)
• U.S. citizens or permanent residents for U.S. Program
• Majors: sciences and engineering (expected)

Selection Criteria: 

• Demonstrated interest in pursuing a Ph.D. or M.D.-Ph.D. (MSTP)
• Prior academic achievement in science and/or engineering coursework
• Strong interest in biomedical and biotechnology research and industry
• Ability to participate in the full-time summer research program period

Candidates for the Amgen Program can affirm the following statements: 

• I am committed to or strongly considering a research-focused career in science or engineering
• I can secure at least one letter of recommendation from a faculty in science or engineering (most programs require two recommendation letters)
• I can articulate why participating inthe Amgen Scholars Program can be transformative for my current and future research and career goals
• I can benefit from and contribute to the host institution, research environment, and cohort of research scholars

Made possible through a 12-year, $50 million commitment from the Amgen Foundation, Amgen Scholars allows undergraduates from across the globe to participate in cutting-edge research opportunities at world-class institutions. Leading institutions across the globe currently host the summer program.

Undergraduate participants benefit from undertaking a research project under top faculty, being part of a cohort-based experience of seminars and networking events, and taking part in a symposium where they meet their peers, learn about biotechnology, and hear from leading scientists.

Eligibility:

• Applicants must have a strong record of academic performance (and a minimum GPA of 3.2 for certain Amgen programs).
• Though it is expected that the majority of Amgen Scholars will be science or engineering majors, students in any major may apply.
• Applicants should be interested in pursuing a PhD.

Selection Criteria:

• The Program seeks to increase learning and networking opportunities for students committed to pursuing science or engineering careers and to spark the interest and broaden the perspective of students considering scientific careers.
• The Amgen Scholars Program encourages applications from both students experienced in research and newcomers to the field. For students who attend colleges and universities that have limited opportunities for students to conduct research, the Program is a great way to gain such experience.

• During the program, students work full-time on independent research projects under the guidance of a research scientist.
• Amgen Scholars have opportunities to conduct research, analyze data, present research results, network with other undergraduates with similar research interests, and develop working relationships with faculty mentors and other research staff.
• Amgen Scholars learn how to collaborate effectively in research settings while investigating areas of research interest within a specific discipline and gaining practical skills and knowledge for both graduate study and post-graduate careers.
• Financial support is a critical component of the Amgen Scholars Program. Please note that details vary by host institution. See each institution’s Amgen Scholars Program website for more information.

Eligibility Requirements

• No previous research experience is necessary and you do not need to be a biology major to apply.
• You do not need to currently attend one of the 17 host institutions to participate in the program. In fact, Amgen Scholars have represented over 500 colleges and universities to date.

Application Process

Each host institution has a separate online application. Follow the links below to access the webpages for more detailed instructions based upon the location of your search:

• US opportunities
• Asia opportunities