PACE

PACE is designed to provide unparalleled research training opportunities to graduates of undergraduate programs to prepare them for success in postgraduate programs in the field of biomedical science.

PACE 2025
The Postbaccalaureate Accelerated Career Experience 
An immersive, hands-on research training experience specifically designed to prepare you for postgraduate work and a career in biomedical science 
 
The Hormel Institute is no longer accepting applications for our PACE program. If you are accepted, you'll spend a year working in the lab and learning from renowned researchers, building your professional network and resume, and be paired with a mentor who will help you meet your research and career goals. 
 
This is a full-time, fully paid position with the University of Minnesota, complete with a  comprehensive benefits package and paid time off. Depending on your success and interest, you may be invited to remain in the program for a second year. 

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Program Benefits

Through immersive hands-on experiences, tailored individual development plans, and robust mentorships, the post-baccalaureate accelerated career experience (PACE) at The Hormel Institute equips trainees with the skills, knowledge, and experiences necessary to excel as research scientists.

PACE is dedicated to creating an inclusive, safe, productive environment that fosters individual growth, ensuring each trainee researcher can reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of biomedical research. 

Program Features 

  • One-year comprehensive research experience in The Hormel Institute's cutting edge research labs, with the option to extend a second year
  • Professional development in a variety of topics and formats, including journal club, grad school preparation, scientific communication, poster creation and presentation, responsible conduct of research, and internal and external seminars
  • Two- week immersion program where you will learn from mentors and complete assessments to ensure seamless integration into the lab based experience
  • Intentional  student and mentor pairing based on research and career interests
  • Customized Individual Development Plan crafted for each participants success
  • Ability to build your personal and professional network with peers, fellow participants, and established researchers
  • Salary and full eligibility for The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota's benefit package, including low-cost, comprehensive medical coverage and paid time off

Preferred Qualifications

  • Successful completion of baccalaureate degree in a biomedically relevant field within 36 months of application.

  • GPA of 3.0 or greater. 

  • 1 year of research experience

  • Demonstrated interest in research related career. 

  • Strong oral and written communication skills.

  • Demonstrated commitment to leadership and service.

How Do I Apply?

Applications are currently closed. Applications will reopen in the fall of 2026.
 
To apply, you'll need: 
  • Current Resume or CV 
  • Undergraduate Transcripts 
  • Two letters of recommendation, recommendation letters can be uploaded as an attachment on the applicant's UMN job portal along with other materials or, if a recommender prefers to submit them separately, can be emailed to [email protected] 
  • A one-page personal statement that describes your academic and career goals, interest in biomedical research, any research experience, if applicable, and how you will benefit from the PACE program. 

When applying, make sure you have uploaded all requested materials with your application because incomplete applications may not be considered, and don't forget to give references enough time to write their letter before the application deadline.

2025-26 Researchers

PACE Class of 2025

Hometown: Tarija, Bolivia 

Major: Chemistry

PACE Class of 2025

Hometown: Liberia

Major: Biology

PACE Class of 2025

Hometown: Plainview, Minnesota

Major: Biochemistry and Neurobiology

Stembele Chikoore

Hometown: Harare, Zimbabwe

Major: Biology

PACE Class of 2025

Hometown: Unionville, Indiana

Major: Biochemistry

Sydney Shirk

Hometown: Lakeville, Minnesota

Major: Health Science

PACE Class of 2025

Hometown: Villa Elisa, Argentina 

Major: Biology