Program Overview:
Supported by the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) Diversity in Cancer Research (DICR) grant, the year-long (June 2026 – May 2027) Cultivating Undergraduate Research Excellence in Cancer (CURE-Cancer) equips undergraduates across Orange County with critical research skills and professional development to succeed in cancer research careers. The program begins with a paid 10-week summer research internship (in basic, clinical, or population sciences) during the summer (June 15 – August 21, 2026), followed by ongoing mentorship support and activities throughout the academic year.
Individuals with an interest in cancer research are especially encouraged to apply.
Applications are due February 27, 2026.
Eligibility:
- Current freshmen, sophomores, and juniors with an interest in any STEM discipline currently enrolled at a community college, college, or university in and around Orange County
- A cumulative GPA of 3.0 and above
- Availability to participant full-time in the mentored summer research program (June 15 – August 21, 2026) without concurrent enrollment in summer courses
- Must not receive a bachelor’s degree before May 2027
- This program is open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and DACA/AB540
- All applicants who accept an offer of employment must comply with the conditions of employment: https://hr.uci.edu/new-hire/conditions-of-employment.php. The program is not able to sponsor visas for participants.
To apply and learn more, visit our website: CURE-Cancer – Cancer Research Institute
Questions? Contact the Cancer Research Institute at cri@uci.edu.
Information Sessions:
January 14, 2026
- 4 – 5 PM, Zoom
- Register Now
February 6, 2026
- 12 – 1 PM, Zoom
- Register Now
