Research Training Programs

The University of Pennsylvania's Summer Undergraduate Internship Program (SUIP) provides undergraduates interested in pursuing doctoral studies (PhD or MD-PhD) in the biomedical sciences with an immersive, research-intensive experience. Established in 1993, SUIP welcomes approximately 60 students from colleges across the U.S. each year, primarily rising juniors and seniors, with occasional admission of rising sophomores. Over ten weeks, interns engage in full-time laboratory research, attend cutting-edge research seminars, receive personalized career counseling from faculty, and participate in The Leadership Alliance National Symposium. The program is designed to identify, encourage, and prepare promising students—particularly those with limited exposure, experience, and access to extensive research opportunities—by providing tailored support and mentorship that fosters interest in biomedical research careers, rather than focusing solely on clinical medicine.

The University of Pennsylvania's Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program (PennPREP) is designed to prepare individuals with baccalaureate degrees for doctoral studies (PhD or MD-PhD) in the biomedical sciences by providing a comprehensive, full-time research experience. The program is particularly valuable for those with limited exposure, experience, and access to extensive research opportunities and is not intended as preparation for a career solely in medicine. PennPREP trainees engage in hands-on laboratory research across various biomedical disciplines, complemented by career development activities, faculty mentorship, and workshops focused on graduate school preparation, research excellence, and professional growth. Through this immersive experience, PennPREP aims to equip post-baccalaureates with the skills, experience, and confidence needed to succeed in competitive doctoral programs and contribute to the advancement of biomedical science.

Applications for Summer 2025 open on October 1st, 2024. Please see the SUIP and PREP pages for application instructions.