UCSF Summer Student Research Program
UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland
For over 40 years this program has paired high school and college students from diverse backgrounds one-on-one with researchers and clinicians on active biomedical research projects, culminating in a research symposium.
Who should apply
A great fit for high school sophomores–seniors interested in biomedical research and clinical medicine, with priority for under-represented students including first-generation, low-income, and otherwise disadvantaged students.
Eligibility
- High school sophomores, juniors, or seniors
- At least 16 by June 1 of the program year
- At least one completed year in math and biology
- Prioritizes under-represented students (first-generation, low socioeconomic background, disabilities, or otherwise disadvantaged)
- For 2026, only high school applicants are being accepted
- In-person participation required for all activities
What you get
- $3,000 stipend (high school students)
- 7-week program (June 15 – July 31, 2026)
- One-on-one mentorship with healthcare providers and researchers
- Weekly seminars and workshops
- Journal clubs, small-group mentoring, and social activities
- Poster and oral presentations at a Research Symposium
What the application involves
The official page is the authoritative list of what this one asks for, and it is linked in the sidebar. Expect the usual: a short application form, a transcript, and at least one teacher or mentor who can vouch for you.
Application tips
- In your essays, connect your background and lived experience to your interest in biomedical research, the program explicitly prioritizes under-represented and first-generation students.
- Highlight your completed math and biology coursework and any hands-on science experience.
- Show genuine curiosity about research and a clinical or scientific career rather than listing achievements.
Not eligible for this one? These are open anywhere in the U.S.
Being in the wrong state rules out a lot of programs and almost none of the good ones. Here are three you can apply to from anywhere, soonest deadline first.
Due December 1 · ~4 months
Research
Nemours Summer Undergraduate Research Program
Nemours Children's Health
A 10-week full-time paid summer research program for undergraduates at four Nemours pediatric sites in Delaware and Florida. Students work on clinical, laboratory, or translational research projects.
Who can apply: Anywhere in the U.S. · grade 12
Due in February · ~7 months
Research
Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS)
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
A biomedical research internship inspiring underrepresented students toward careers in neurological and behavioral sciences, with an in-person Baltimore track and a national virtual track.
Who can apply: Anywhere in the U.S. · grades 11–12
Due in February · ~7 months
Research
Simons Summer Research Program
Stony Brook University
A summer program where academically talented high school students join active science, math, or engineering research teams under faculty mentors and present at a closing poster symposium, receiving a stipend award.
Who can apply: Anywhere in the U.S. · grade 11