To increase access to talent by removing potential barriers to Basser Center’s recruitment of the most accomplished and promising candidates, all undergraduate students who meet the eligibility criteria are welcome to apply. 

We encourage applications from eligible undergraduate students from a variety of backgrounds, such as:

• Students from low to moderate income backgrounds
• Students who are the first to attend college
• Students attending small liberal arts colleges and universities with limited research opportunities

We are no longer accepting application submissions for the 2026 Basser Summer Scholars program. Information about the next application cycle will be posted when available.

Who is eligible for the Basser Summer Scholars program?

• Enrolled in a full-time undergraduate program
• Expected graduation: spring 2027 and 2028 (rising juniors and seniors)   
• Interest in careers in genetic counseling or related basic laboratory research in the genetics of cancer 
   

How long is internship?

• The internship will be an 8-week program located on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania.
   

Is the internship paid?

• Interns will be paid an hourly wage of $23.44 subject to taxes. Interns are responsible for expenses such as housing and transportation.
   

When is the application deadline?

• We are no longer accepting application submissions for the 2026 Basser Summer Scholars program. Information about the next application cycle will be posted when available.
   

What required documents do I need to apply?

1. Completed online application form (button below)

2. Personal Statement - (no more than 2 pages) including:  

   1. Why do you want to participate in the Basser internship?

   2. How do you anticipate Basser internship contributing to your career path?

   3. Why should you be chosen to participate in Basser internship?

   4. What aspects of genetic research or counseling interest you?  

   5. Describe any research positions you may have held (no prior research experience is required)

3. Undergraduate transcript

   1. Your transcript must include all semesters/terms attended at your primary institution. Please also include any study abroad transcripts.

   2. Unofficial transcripts will suffice.

4. Resume

5. Letters of recommendation:

   1. Two letters of recommendation are required.

   2. Letters from academic faculty who know you personally and can comment on your academic abilities and your aptitude for research are highly encouraged.

   3. Requests for letters of recommendation will be sent through the application portal to the email that applicants provide.

What kind of research will I do?

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Will I work in a laboratory?

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Will I work with Basser researchers?

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Will I learn about BRCA1/BRCA2?

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Will I interact with genetic counselors?

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Will I attend educational sessions?

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Will I present my research?

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Will I work independently or with a mentor?

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