Program Overview

Introduction to the Radiation Oncology Advanced Development and Applied Research for Medical Students Program

The Radiation Oncology Advanced Development and Applied Research for Medical Students (RADAR) program is a 10-week initiative that offers hands-on experience in radiation oncology research. This program is designed for students who have completed their first year of medical school and provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of radiation oncology.

Program Details

• The program spans 10 weeks, from June 1 to August 7, and is a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week.
• Participants are matched with a mentor in the Division of Radiation Oncology based on shared interests and project availability.
• The program includes engagement in scientific research, opportunities to develop mentorship relationships, formal programming to introduce the field of radiation oncology, and a final presentation at the Division of Radiation Oncology Summer Research Symposium.

Eligibility and Requirements

• Students must be in good academic standing and have completed their first year at a Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME)- or Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA)-accredited U.S. medical school.
• Applicants must be present for the full 10 weeks and not have other summer employment.
• Students selected for the program must attend the Radiation Oncology Summer Research Symposium.

Stipend, Housing, and Expenses

• Participants receive a stipend of up to $18/hr or $7,200 (pre-tax) for the 10-week program.
• The stipend includes allowances for housing, living, and travel expenses.

Mentor Matching Process

• Faculty members in the Division of Radiation Oncology serve as direct supervisors for summer research medical students.
• Students are matched with a Division of Radiation Oncology faculty mentor based on the interests outlined in the personal statement and project availability.

Application Process

• Applications open on November 17, and the application deadline is January 19 at 11:59 CST.
• Required application materials include personal and demographic information, official transcripts, a statement of research experience and areas of interest, and two letters of reference.

Program Conclusion

The RADAR program concludes with the Division of Radiation Oncology Summer Research Symposium, where participants present talks and posters on their research projects to peers and faculty. This program aims to provide students with an introduction to the field of radiation oncology, opportunities to engage with oncology research, and mentorship relationships that may last beyond the summer.