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 support 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.
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 at four-year colleges or universities who: Are in their sophomore or junior year of coursework at the time of application or current seniors expecting to graduate in May 2027.
- 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.
About the 2027 Program
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Application Deadline: January 20, 2027
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Program Dates: June 1- August 6, 2027
Application
- Resume
- 1 page Personal Statement
- Undergraduate transcript
- Two letters of recommendation should be submitted directly by the recommender no later than the application deadline. Please plan ahead and give your recommenders plenty of time to write and submit their letter. Guidance for the recommender can be found here.
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It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure the letters of recommendation are received. We will not reach out to your recommenders if the letter is not received.
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Program Faculty
Dr. Aleksandra Babicheva
Assistant Professor
Dr. Luke Hoeppner
Associate Professor
Dr. Qi Tan
Assistant Professor
