Summer Research Experience

Summer 2025 Application

The Summer Research Experience, funded by the Underrepresented in Medicine Center of Excellence at UCLA in partnership with the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center (JCCC) and Center for Community College Partnership (CCCP), will be offering community college students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a world-class research environment. Designed to enhance competitiveness for medical school applications, this program provides hands-on research experience under the mentorship of distinguished UCLA faculty at JCCC. Participants will engage in meaningful research projects that address critical issues in cancer research and medicine while developing essential skills in data analysis, scientific communication, and critical thinking. This transformative experience is designed to build confidence, enhance academic and professional skills, and empower students to take the next steps in their journey toward becoming leaders in the medical field.

 

Eligibility Requirements:
1) Currently enrolled in a community college, in their first or second year of college, and will have completed an Intro to Biology or Chemistry course by the start of the summer research experience.
2) Must be at least 18 years old by June 1, 2025 and be U.S citizens, hold a permanent residency or have documentation of approved eligibility for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) in the State of California. 

3) Must have a strong interest in research, biological chemistry, and/or cancer immunology.
4) Applicant must be available to participate in Program Dates: June 23, 2025 – August 15, 2025 (or longer if available). Must be available for an online orientation the week before the program begins. 
5) The time commitment is 40 hours per week and must have transportation to UCLA. Parking will be reimbursed by the department. 
6) Must be available to participate in enrichment activities with the Center for Community College Partnerships at UCLA.

 

Application Materials: 
Submit an online application:  Please note that this application will take roughly 45 minutes to complete and will require you to have the following items ready for submission:

• Transcript(s)

• Resume or CV

• Personal Statement

• Letter of Recommendation from at least 1 from a faculty member (preferred), counselor, mentor, advisor, etc. No letters from peers or family members will be accepted. Recommender must use this link to submit their letter.

Application & Letter of Recommendation Deadline is April 21, 2025 at 11:59PM (PST). 

If you are invited to interview, invitations will be emailed in May 2025
Acceptances will be emailed in June 2025. 

Questions? Email: UIM-COE@mednet.ucla.edu