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Short-Term Research Experience Program to Unlock Potential (STEP-UP)

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STEP-UP –
Expanding opportunities… regardless of Zip Code

Why choose STEP-UP?

Community at its Heart
Bringing together students and researchers across zip codes
Flexible Location
Close to home or far away — almost anywhere in the US
Mentor-Guided Support
Work side-by-side with experienced researchers
Photo of diverse students examining a research project
Photo of diverse students examining a research project

More student benefits:

Hands-on lab work
Do real research in a genuine lab setting.

Wide range of research choices
From engineering to health — and almost everything in between.

Get paid
Receive up to a $2,500 stipend HS and $6,500 stipend undergraduate for your efforts.

Career inroads
Expand your job and post-graduate network through program contacts.

Check eligibility

How it works

  1. Complete the online application
    Follow the application process, and if you're selected, we'll reach out with the good news.
  2. Choose your own research site
    Whether you want to be close to home or far away — pick almost any research site in the United States.
  3. Take the training
    Complete an online training course prior to joining your research lab.
  4. Do the research
    Spend 8-10 weeks over the summer (40 hours per week) researching with mentors.
  5. Present your work
    Show off your research in an end-of-summer event with other student researchers.
  6. Keep it going
    Get 9 months of post-program mentorship — included with program acceptance.

Learn more about what to expect

Your location, your choice

From your local college or hospital, to big name schools on the other side of the country. With STEP-UP, students choose where to research — even private research labs.

Check eligibility

Frequently asked questions

Logistics and financial support

Duration and timing

Eligibility and applying

Science and research

Still have a question?

Stipend amount varies by location. Read more about financial support in What to Expect if Accepted.

Last Reviewed April 2024