The Basser Center for BRCA at the Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, has established an eight-week intensive research opportunity for undergraduate students interested in genetics.
Learn About the Program
This program was created to expand the pipeline of candidates with various backgrounds pursuing a career in genetic counseling, clinical genetics, nursing, and basic science. 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.
Students from low to moderate income backgrounds, students who are the first to attend college, and students attending small liberal arts colleges and universities with limited research opportunities are encouraged to apply.
2026 Basser Summer Scholars Internship Program Application
Eligibility
- 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
Program Dates
The internship will be on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania, from June 8, 2026 to July 31, 2026.
Compensation
Interns will be paid an hourly wage of $23.44 subject to taxes. Interns are responsible for expenses such as housing and transportation.
Application Process
Applications for the 2026 Basser Summer Scholars program open on December 18, 2025. All applications are due on February 3, 2026 by 5:00 pm ET. All components of the application, including letters of recommendation, must be received by the deadline. Incomplete applications or applications submitted after this deadline will not be considered.
Applicants selected for a virtual interview will be notified via email by mid-March 2026.
Required Documents:
- Completed online application form (button below)
- Personal Statement - (no more than 2 pages) including:
- Why do you want to participate in the Basser internship?
- How do you anticipate Basser internship contributing to your career path?
- Why should you be chosen to participate in Basser internship?
- What aspects of genetic research or counseling interest you?
- Describe any research positions you may have held (no prior research experience is required)
- Undergraduate transcript
- Your transcript must include all semesters/terms attended at your primary institution. Please also include any study abroad transcripts.
- Unofficial transcripts will suffice.
- Resume
- Letters of recommendation:
- Two letters of recommendation are required.
- Letters from academic faculty who know you personally and can comment on your academic abilities and your aptitude for research are highly encouraged.
- Requests for letters of recommendation will be sent through the application portal to the email that applicants provide.
