Apply

The STEP-UP 2025 Summer Research Program application is now open!

Please complete our interest form to confirm your eligibility and receive a full application. 

To apply you will need:

  • A one to two page personal statement that answers
    • Why are you applying for this summer training program what do you hope to gain?
    • Which college-level course or other academic experience have you found most rewarding and interesting up to this point in your career and why?
    • How has your coursework, research, community activities or work experience influenced or supported your interest in cancer prevention and control?
    • In what capacity do you see yourself contributing to the cancer workforce in the future?
  • A  PDF of your unofficial transcript
  • A PDF of your resume or CV
  • Email address for two individuals that can offer a reference on your behalf (We require TWO references, one from someone at your college and one from another individual that can speak to your attributes, past experiences, communication, teamwork and cultural competency. You will be asked to provide the email addresses of your references and they will be sent an email asking them to fill out the reference online or submit a letter of reference.)
    • Please ensure your references are timely in their responses. 

Eligibility:

  • Current Undergraduate or Master’s Student (must be enrolled as an Undergraduate Junior, Undergraduate Senior or Master's level student during the fall semester of the program year).
    • If you are transitioning to graduate school in the fall semester of the program year, you must provide proof of application or acceptance.
  • Have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or above
  • U.S. Citizen or permanent resident (International students are not eligible for this program due to federal funding restrictions)
  • Able to commit to the full 10-week summer research experience. Other employment, courses, commitments, vacations, etc., are prohibited during the program. Please ensure you can comply with a full-time schedule before you apply.
  • We encourage applications from students from underrepresented, disadvantaged, non-traditional, or first-generation college backgrounds or who attend schools with limited research opportunities.