Columbia University offers a competitive ten-week summer research program to a select group of motivated undergraduate students who will benefit from the opportunity of hands-on laboratory research. Through the generous support of the Amgen Foundation, this program provides an immersive experience in discovering something completely new while learning to overcome challenges inherent in scientific research. This fellowship aims to teach the next generation of scientists the tricks of the trade to performing cutting-edge research, involving key elements such as hands-on experience in premier labs, weekly meetings within the laboratories, and informal discussions with accomplished scientists at all levels of training. Participants gain exposure to diverse areas of research through attendance at the ASP Symposium, research lectures, and peer oral presentations. In addition, numerous activities like peer research introductions, journal club, and elevator pitches foster the development of tools to explain undertaken research to individuals outside the laboratory. The program culminates in an oral presentation to peers and the submission of an original research article based on the students' work. Efforts to teach young scientists to fully understand their work and to explain it to others in different sub-fields is emphasized, aiming to improve the understanding of science among students and the general public. Participants receive a stipend, flex dining credit, and housing on the Morningside campus, and are required to present their research.
Program
Organizers: Amgen Foundation, Columbia University, Harvard University
Host: Columbia University
Timeframe: May 26 - July 31, 2026
Duration: 63 days
Locations: North America, United States, New York City
Study Areas: Life Sciences & Biology, Medical & Health Sciences
Specific Fields: Bioinformatics & Biotechnology, Genetics & Genomics, Microbiology & Immunology, Molecular & Cellular Biology, Neuroscience & Mental Health, Pharmacology & Biomedical
Application
Criteria: Must be U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents. Must be undergraduate students enrolled in accredited four-year colleges or universities in the United States, Puerto Rico, or other U.S. territories. A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.2 or above is required. Applicants must demonstrate an interest in pursuing a Ph.D. or M.D.-Ph.D. No prior research experience is explicitly required. Applicants should be sophomores (with four quarters or three semesters of college experience), juniors, or non-graduating seniors who will return in the fall to continue undergraduate studies.
Target Degree: Bachelor
Required Documents:- Application Form
- Essay (describing laboratory experience, career plans, and a science-related finding in the last ten years that inspired them)
- Letter of Recommendation (2)
- Official Transcript
Costs & Contact
Stipend: Financial support is provided, covering the program. Specific stipend amount varies by host institution. Travel, room, and board for the North America Symposium are also covered.
Cost: No cost
Contact: cs2660@columbia.edu
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