The program offers a rare, free gateway to university-level, hands-on laboratory experience in cancer research for high school students, culminating in a research symposium.
The UCI Cancer Research Institute Summer Youth Science Fellowship Program (YSFP) offers high school students a six-week immersive experience in laboratory-based cancer research. Participants work alongside UCI scientists on active research projects, gaining hands-on experience in bench work and developing an individual research project under the guidance of a mentor. The program aims to build the pipeline for the next generation of cancer researchers by introducing students to leaders in the field and providing insights into the latest research trends. In addition to mentored lab work (approximately 30 hours per week), the program includes didactic lectures, cohort reflections, and social activities. The experience culminates in a research symposium where students present their findings to faculty, students, and the wider community, fostering critical presentation and communication skills.
A typical day involves spending most of the time (approximately 30 hours per week) learning and training in a single lab under an assigned mentor, supplemented by didactic lectures, cohort reflections, and social activities.
This program is best for highly motivated high school juniors and seniors from Orange County who are interested in pursuing a career in cancer research or related STEM fields and are looking for intensive, hands-on laboratory experience.
UC Irvine Campus
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