Description of the fellowship

The UD-FCCC Summer Research Fellowship provides full-time, immersive summer paid research opportunities to select UD students with limited laboratory experience. During the 10-week residential program, Research Fellows work on unique research projects and hone their laboratory skills. At the culmination of the program, students present the results of their research at a symposium.

In addition to working on novel scientific projects, students practice 21st-century skills including critical thinking, collaboration, and information literacy. Students receive one-on-one mentorship as they read, write, and discuss cutting-edge science. Through this program, UD-FCCC Research Fellows become educated health consumers that can interpret and explain difficult scientific concepts to experts and lay audiences alike.

The UD-FCCC Summer Research Fellowship also provides weekly professional development opportunities for students. Research Fellows receive individualized mentorship as they build and expand their professional network on LinkedIn, update resumes, and write cover letters. Simultaneously, students are exposed to a wide diversity of biomedical careers found in a cancer center through a weekly career series. At the end of the fellowship, participants are equipped to pursue numerous STEM professions.

The current stipend is set at $4,500 for ten weeks of full-time research and free housing is provided. This program is funded in part by Thomas and Kay Hofmann’s philanthropic support and in part by the ongoing institutional commitment from the Fox Chase Cancer Center.

Who is eligible to apply?

To apply to the UD-FCCC fellowship, UD students must:

• Attend the Science Discovery Tour in the years preceding their application,
• Be current UD students in good academic standing,
• Be at least eighteen (18) years of age,
• Pass a mandatory health and drug screening, and background check,
• Have relevant immunizations, including a two-step screening for PPD, COVID and flu vaccinations, and
• Commit to work full time for 10 consecutive weeks at Fox Chase Cancer Center.

How do I apply?

To apply for the fellowship, eligible UD students complete an online application and submit a current college transcript.  Following the deadline (usually in early January), applications are reviewed by a panel of program staff and alumni and qualifying finalists interview with program staff. Final decisions are generally made by late January/mid-February.