Program Overview

Summer Undergraduate Research Program

The Summer Undergraduate Research Program is designed to encourage applications from students of all backgrounds whose varied educational and life experiences contribute to a broadly diverse and inclusive academic community. This program is in alignment with UMass Chan Medical School's mission to advance the health and wellness of diverse communities throughout Massachusetts and beyond.

Eligibility Requirements

All who are interested in biomedical research are welcome to apply. The eligibility requirements are as follows:

• Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
• Enrollment Status: Must be continuously matriculating (actively enrolled) at a 2 or 4 year college or university. This includes college sophomores, juniors, or seniors. College seniors who will graduate before the 2026 fall semester are not eligible.
• Citizenship Status: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Academic Requirements: Must have a GPA of 3.00 or higher and be in good academic standing.

Application

Applications must be submitted online. The key application dates are:

• Application Opens: November 15, 2025
• Submission Deadline: March 2, 2026

Required Upload Documents

The following documents are required to be uploaded by the applicant:

• Current Resume: Updated and tailored to reflect relevant academic, research, or work experience.
• Current Unofficial Transcript
• Previous Undergraduate Institution Unofficial Transcripts
• Personal Statement (1–2 pages). The statement should discuss:
  • Reasons for applying to the program.
  • How prior academic and life experiences have prepared the applicant to succeed in the program.
  • Career goals and how participating in the summer research program will help achieve those goals.
  • Any challenges overcome during the academic journey.
  • How varied experiences and perspectives contribute to the biomedical sciences.
• Two (2) letters of recommendation (uploaded by recommenders)

Transcript Requirement

Students who are accepted must have their Registrar submit one of the following:

• An official transcript that includes Spring 2026 semester courses.
• A letter from the Registrar confirming enrollment in Spring 2026 courses. This documentation must be sent by email or mail. Failure to meet this requirement will result in disqualification from the program.