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High School Program in Biomedical Research

We are now accepting applications for Wistar’s 2026 High School Summer Program in Biomedical Research.
Apply today by reviewing the instructions outlined below. 

A Summer of Science for a Lifetime of Learning

Wistar’s High School Fellowship in Biomedical Research is now accepting applications for its immersive biomedical research internship. This summer, students will spend four weeks learning best-practices in biomedical laboratory techniques while also contributing to active Wistar science projects in our state-of-the-science Training Lab. Students will also learn to read scientific literature, explore multiple careers in biomedical research, and present their work at the end of the program.

We are excited to support 15 highly–motivated high school students who are passionate about science and interested in experiencing biomedical research. No prior research experience is necessary. Students from Philadelphia high schools are strongly encouraged to apply.

biomedical research program for high school students
FELLOWSHIP SCHEDULE & STIPEND

Wistar’s High School Fellowship in Biomedical Research takes place Monday, July 6th through Thursday, July 30st, 2026. Each week, students are expected to participate Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Note that absences of more than two consecutive days cannot be accommodated – please ensure you can fully participate in the program.

The Wistar Institute is located in West Philadelphia’s University City District at 3601 Spruce Street.

Students will receive SEPTA passes to defray the cost of traveling to and from the Institute. A stipend of $1,500 will be awarded for successful completion of the program.

ELIGIBILITY

To be eligible for the program, students must:

  • Be at least 16 years of age by the program start date (July 6, 2026); and
  • Have successfully completed at least one high school science course

Note: This program prioritizes participation from students enrolled in the School District of Philadelphia.

SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY

Pending funding, a select number of participants will be invited to spend an additional 3 weeks (August 3 – August 21) at the Institute performing individually-mentored research in one of our cancer research labs. This research will occur immediately following the conclusion of the four-week program. Applicants who wish to be considered for this optional activity must submit an additional statement as described below.

TO APPLY

Applications can be submitted online here.

Register for an account by clicking “Register” in the upper right-hand corner of the site, and then click “APPLY” under the High School Summer Program 2026 session.

Applications are due by 11:59 pm EST, Friday, March 20, 2026.

A complete application includes:

  • Online application
  • Please submit a personal statement that explains why you are interested in this program and how participation will advance your educational and career goals. We invite you to also share any barriers or challenges you’ve faced in pursuing your career goals and how this program can help you overcome those challenges. Statements should be single-spaced, 12-point font and no more than 1 page.
  • Two letters of recommendation. We prefer at least one recommendation from a current or former science teacher.
  • Unofficial transcript or list of classes taken with grades received
  • Optional: To be considered for the additional three-week, individually mentored research experience, submit a Cancer Research Statement describing your interest in exploring a career in basic cancer research. In your statement, identify 2-3 faculty members you are interested in working with, and explain why these faculty and their research interest you. Faculty must be members of the Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer Center. You can learn more about our faculty here. NOTE: This additional opportunity is contingent on funding.

The selection process will include a 15-minute virtual interview of qualified candidates in April. Final decisions will be communicated in the first week of May. Participants and parent/guardians are expected to attend a mandatory orientation session in June.

CONTACT US

For more information about the High School Fellowship in Biomedical Research at The Wistar Institute, please contact:

Jason Diaz, Ph.D.
Education Program Director, Teaching, Learning & Collaboration and Assistant Professor
The Wistar Institute
3601 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
215-898-3803
jdiaz@wistar.org

Cailey Bice
Education Program Coordinator
The Wistar Institute
3601 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
215-898-3749
cbice@wistar.org

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The Wistar Institute gratefully acknowledges generous support for the High School Fellowship in Biomedical Research from:

Pincus Family Foundation
Christian R. & Mary F. Lindback Foundation
Rich and Lily Siegel

“The High School Fellowship confirmed for me that I want a research career. It exposed me to the field I want to go into before college and gave me valuable experiences I could not have gotten elsewhere.”

A.L., Julia R. Masterman Laboratory & Demonstration School
Wistar High School Fellowship Graduate