HI-InSPIRE

About HI-InSPIRE

The Hormel Institute’s Innovative Summer Program of Intensive Research Education (HI-InSPIRE) offers a unique opportunity for undergraduate students to immerse themselves in a 10-week, hands-on research experience. This program is designed to provide exposure to cutting-edge biomedical and translational research in areas related to cardiovascular diseases that supports the mission of the American Heart Association

Throughout the summer, participants will work alongside program faculty members at The Hormel Institute, contributing to real-world research projects while developing a deeper understanding of the scientific process. In addition to lab experience, students will take part in a series of professional development sessions, research skill-building workshops, career exploration events, and faculty-led seminars. The program is led by Dr. Aleksandra Babicheva.

HI-InSPIRE aims to foster interdisciplinary learning and equip students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for pursuing graduate education or careers in science and medicine. Participants will gain experience in collaborative research, critical thinking, and scientific communication—key tools for success in future research or academic settings.

An AHA Institutional Award sponsors the program for Undergraduate Student Training. You can learn more about the training by clicking here.

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Program Highlights

The AHA-sponsored cardiovascular fellowship program provides a $6,000 stipend and an additional travel fund (up to $3,000) to allow each fellow to attend a research conference. The fellows will:

Work full-time (40 hours/week) for 10 weeks on assigned research projects in the sponsor’s lab.
Participate in required fellow meetings, seminars, and workshops for professional development throughout the 10 weeks.
Prepare a poster and engage in the HI Symposium during the final week of the experience.

Eligibility

Open to full-time undergraduate students from any four-year college or university who are in their sophomore or junior year at the time of their application to the fellowship.
Students must be able to attend the full, 10-week summer research program.
At the time of application, the student must be a United States citizen, or a foreign national holding a student, exchange, or permanent resident visa, including an F-1, H1, H1B, J1, PR, or TN. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status requires additional AHA approval to apply.
Students of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Students from backgrounds underrepresented in science, engineering, and medicine are strongly encouraged to apply.

How to Apply

Applications for the Summer 2025 program are now closed. The 2025 summer research program starts on May 27 and ends on August 1, 2025. Appilcations will open in early November for the 2026 program.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact [email protected].