Preprofessional Opportunities

MD Anderson Cancer Center - Summer Undergraduate Research Program

Details

Category: Summer
Type: Research
Location: Smithville Texas
Deadline: Mid January

Eligibility

Students who have completed at least two years of college-level courses in one or more science programs (biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics or computer science) and are in good academic standing are eligible to apply. Applicants must currently be enrolled in an undergraduate program in the United States and be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or international student on F1 or J1 visa to apply. Students who are considering pursuing an advanced degree (Ph.D., M.D. or both) and are interested in scientific investigation would benefit most from the program.

Description

The Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) is a 10-week program that offers hands-on experience in biomedical, translational or clinical research. Students who have completed at least two years of college-level courses in one or more science programs (biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics or computer science) and are in good academic standing are eligible to apply. Students who are considering pursuing an advanced degree (Ph.D., M.D. or both) and are interested in scientific investigation would benefit most from the program.

Students are matched with a mentor from MD Anderson’s research or clinical faculty. Participants work alongside the mentor in a lab or clinic on projects designed by faculty to reflect current research. Workshops and lectures provide opportunities to connect with faculty, residents, postdoctoral and clinical fellows, and other participants. Through the program, students assess goals related to careers in oncology research and patient care. The program culminates with a symposium in which participants present talks and posters on their research projects to peers and faculty.

The program includes the following activities:

  • Hands-on investigative scientific research directed by MD Anderson faculty
  • Clinical observation in interventional radiology, radiation oncology, breast and melanoma medical oncology, nuclear medicine, and IPCT (Institute for Personalized Cancer Therapy)
  • Lectures and workshops designed to expand students' knowledge of scientific fields and medical disciplines
  • End-of-program presentation of research projects

In addition to working in labs and shadowing faculty members, students in the Summer Undergraduate Research Program take part in a variety of academic and networking activities.