Indiana University School of Medicine offers research training programs for high school students interested in exploring biomedical and health-related research careers. Gain hands-on experience to develop research skills and enhance your college application while exploring what a future in biomedical research could hold.
Summer Research Programs
Future Scientist Program
The Future Scientist Program at IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center is a summer science program for high school juniors at Indianapolis and all Marion County public schools, providing the opportunity to spend eight weeks on a research project under the mentorship of a university researcher.
CTSI SEED/STEM Summer Program
The CTSI SEED/STEM program provides a summer experience for students who want to explore a research career in any of the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields, such as medicine, dentistry, computer science, information technology, life sciences, chemistry, biomedical engineering and more. Accepted students are matched with a research faculty who host and mentor them in their research labs over the summer. Students currently in grades 10, 11 and 12 are prioritized. Stipends (up to $4,000) are provided to eligible individuals.
Molecular Medicine in Action
In this program for high school sophomore, junior and senior students, participants experience the methods scientists use in unlocking and deciphering the molecular, cellular and genetic basis of diseases and processes such as cancer, diabetes, stem cells and angiogenesis. The Molecular Medicine In Action program was developed by IU School of Medicine with the Riley Children’s Foundation, Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana Association of Biology Teachers and the Hoosier Association of Science Teachers to provide high school students an inside view of research and science.
Medical Physician Engineers, Scientists, and Clinicians Preparatory Program
The Medical Physician Engineers, Scientists, and Clinicians Preparatory (MPESC-Prep) program provides talented and diverse high school and college students with opportunities for STEM-related professional development and mentorship to prepare them for future careers in biomedical research, clinical care, physician-scientist and physician-engineer roles. High school student participants are selected from public schools in the greater Indianapolis area. The MPESC program considers eligibility factors such as being underrepresented in the biomedical sciences, including rural students, first-generation students, students with disabilities and students from various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
The program’s eight week research-intensive summer experience includes clinical exposure and opportunities to network with peers, higher level trainees and faculty leaders in scientific research and clinical care.