Cancer Research High School Program
The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, invites high school students from the Austin and Mower County communities to participate in the Cancer Research High School Program. This two-week, online program is ideal for high school students with an interest in cancer research in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, care, and patient support.
Students will learn directly from The Hormel Institute Professor Leena Hilakivi-Clarke, PhD – a leading cancer researcher focused on the role diets play in affecting breast cancer risk and mortality – as well as through leading cancer experts from the Masonic Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic, the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Medical College of Wisconsin, and the University of Iowa.
A stipend of $500 will be given upon successful completion of the entire program.
Funded by the American Cancer Society.
Eligibility
- Full-time high school student status at the time of application (rising sophomore, junior, or senior in Summer 2026)
- Strong interest in a career in scientific research, biomedicine, or another cancer-related field
- Ability to commit to the full two-week program (July 20– July 31, 2026, Monday–Friday, 4 hours per day)
- Resident of Minnesota
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Benefits
- Mentorship from researchers in the cancer science field
- Network of faculty and peers across program sites
- Targeted career development workshops with professionals in cancer research and care
- Lab kits for the experiments related to the program from EClose
- $500 taxable stipend
Program Dates
Application Process
- Parent/guardian available to give consent for the minor to participate, as well as provide parent/guardian's email address
- Current GPA and list of courses taken in high school
- Consent from a teacher that can provide a short recommendation for you to participate - provide their name and work email address. Please select someone who can reflect on your interest in science, your ability to work with other students in an educational setting, and your ability to honor commitments and deadlines.
- Personal statement essay prompts:
~ Of the learning opportunities related to careers in science and medicine, why have you chosen to apply to the CRHSP? For example, you might discuss how the program relates to your academic and career plans, the nature of your interest in cancer, or what you hope to gain from the experience. (250 words or less)
~ What qualities and experiences do you have that best prepare you for the scientific and professional demands of this program? (250 words or less)
~ Scientific progress depends on unique expertise and perspectives. Tell us about an aspect of your own perspective, viewpoint, or lived experience that is important to you, and describe how it shapes the way you would learn from and contribute to the CRHSP community. (250 words or less)
~ Is there anything else important for us to know about you? (250 words or less)