Updated: Febuary 7th, 2025
Check the 2024 SPARC schedule here!
The George Washington Summer Program Advancing Research on Cancer (GW-SPARC) engages undergraduates who will form the next generation of scientific leaders in a mentored summer research experience at the George Washington University (GW) Cancer Center. This program is intended for undergraduates considering Ph.D. training and a career in research. Candidates from backgrounds underrepresented in biomedical research are strongly encouraged to apply.
This summer program fosters active engagement in cutting-edge research, exposure to contemporary cancer research techniques, understanding of health disparities and impact of cancer in different communities, and preparation for research careers. There will be no opportunities for clinical shadowing. Students will live and work in the heart of D.C., just blocks from national monuments, museums, and entertainment. At the end of the summer, all students participate in a poster session with other undergraduate researchers.
Stipend
The program will provide $5,000 for 10 weeks participation, paid in two installments upon arrival. Additional funds up to $500 will be provided for travel to/from GW. Students are encouraged to stay in GW housing which will be provided by the program at no cost to the student.
Eligible applicants include:
- U.S. citizens or permanent residents. We encourage individuals from groups that are underrepresented in the biomedical sciences to apply.
- Preference will be given to rising juniors and seniors. Seniors graduating in 2025 are not eligible for this program.
SPARC is partly supported by a grant from the American Cancer Society Center for Diversity in Cancer Research Training (DICR INTR-24-1297242-01-DICR INTR)
The application period for SPARC 2025 is now closed. Applications for SPARC 2026 will open in late November, 2025