Accelerate Your Career in Biomedical Science.
The WVU Cancer Institute invites ambitious undergraduates to immerse themselves in full-time hands-on biomedical research this summer. Work side-by-side with leading oncology scientists on real-world projects at an R1 research university. You won't just observe science; you will contribute to ongoing oncology projects. Join one of our research teams focusing on breast, lung, pancreatic, brain, and head & neck cancers. Gain mastery in advanced cellular, molecular, and biochemical techniques, and have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art, multi-million-dollar scientific instrumentation used in modern biomedical research. Expand your horizons in cutting-edge science, meet new friends in our scientific community, grow your network, and develop mentor relationships that can last well beyond the summer.
Experience Morgantown, one of the nation’s top ranked small college towns. Take advantage of everything the WVU Medical Campus and the region have to offer. Have fun on our organized outdoor excursions and enjoy Morgantown’s beautiful surrounding parks, lakes, and rivers.
With a $5,000 stipend and immersive training in clinical and basic science labs, this program is an outstanding launchpad for students preparing for graduate studies, medical school, or a future in biotechnology. We typically accept 3-4 WVU students and 1-2 students from other US colleges. Prior research experience is a plus.
Program Details:
- Dates: May 18, 2026 – July 31, 2026
- Stipend: $5,000
- Housing: Housing is not provided, but summer sublet apartments are widely available in Morgantown during the summer (often walkable or with shuttle service). After acceptance, we will assist you in finding accommodation.
Explore Our Research: View our Research Teams and Programs
Eligibility:
- Full-time sophomore and junior undergraduate students enrolled in a US university or college at the dates of the program.
- Students who have participated in the program in previous years are not eligible.
International students enrolled in a US university or college are responsible to obtain their own visa and work permit if accepted to the program.
Application Information
Application opens: December 1, 2025
Application closes: March 2, 2026
Applicants will be notified of their acceptance status by March 20, 2026. Please be patient as we review applications. If accepted to the program, you’ll be asked to provide your official transcript.
Preferred Factors in Selection
- Established collaboration with WVU Cancer Institute labs
- Previous research experience
- Academic record, particularly in biomedical science-related courses
- West Virginia resident status
- Minority and underprivileged, including economically disadvantaged.
Questions Should Be Directed To:
RE: Undergraduate Summer Research at WVU Cancer Institute
Tina Lankford
Administrative Assistant, Senior64 Medical Center Dr.
Morgantown, WV 26506-9300
Tel: 304-293-5175
Questions About The Scientific Program Can Be Directed To:
Alexey Ivanov, Ph.D.
Coordinator Undergraduate Research Program
Tel: 304-293-4936
Financial support for the fellowship program comes from the Edwin C. Spurlock Fellowship Fund, Edward L. Reed Cancer Research Endowment, Dr. David B. McClung Cancer Research Endowment Fund and Joe Marconi Cancer Research Fellowship Endowment.
