PUMAS Summer Internship Program
The PUMAS Summer Internship Program at Gladstone Institutes offers undergraduate students the opportunity to work in leading biomedical research labs in areas such as neuroscience, cardiovascular biology, immunology, virology, and stem cell biology. The program aims to increase diversity in science by providing students from underrepresented backgrounds with mentorship and real-world research experience.
Participants are paired with faculty mentors and work on specific research projects that may involve experimental design, data collection, and analysis, as well as laboratory techniques such as molecular biology assays, cell culture, and imaging. Students are integrated into ongoing research projects and have the opportunity to contribute to advancing biomedical research aimed at understanding and treating diseases such as Alzheimer's, heart disease, and HIV.
In addition to research activities, students participate in workshops on scientific communication, research ethics, and career development. The program places a strong emphasis on mentoring, with each student receiving personalized guidance and support from faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate students.
The program typically culminates in a research symposium where students present their findings to the Gladstone community. The program provides a stipend, and housing and travel assistance may be available for students from outside the San Francisco area.
Eligibility Requirements
- Be a United States citizen or permanent resident.
- Be currently enrolled as a community college student who is planning to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor’s degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM).
- Have successfully completed at least two semesters of college-level science courses with a lab component (chemistry and molecular biology preferred, but not required), before the start of the PUMAS internship.
- Have a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.50.
- Prior PUMAS interns are encouraged to apply.
For thorough eligibility and selection information, visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.