The American Cancer Society Cancer Research High School Program (ACS CRHSP) is a virtual, multi-institutional, synchronous program for high school students. Current freshman, sophomores, and juniors interested in STEMM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine) are encouraged to apply. Program activities are designed to foster an interest in health-related careers, recognizing the unique challenges of rural Iowans. Programming is delivered in part through a partnership with eCLOSE Institute. CRHSP is funded by the American Cancer Society.
Program Description:
The Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Iowa is pleased to enroll up to 20 CRHSP applicants each year. Over the course of two weeks, students collaborate with peers from the Midwest on a genetics-based research project and a patient case study project to explore facets of cancer science and clinical care. Students also participate in faculty lectures, panel discussions, and skill-building workshops to acquire knowledge and network for their next steps on biomedical career pathways.
About the ACS Cancer Research High School Program
Participating Institutions
As part of a cohort, CRHSP participants enrolled through the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Iowa will complete all program activities in collaboration with peers enrolled through:
Eligibility
- Full-time high school student status at the time of application (rising sophomore, junior, or senior in Summer 2025)
- Strong interest in a career in scientific research, biomedicine, or another cancer-related field
- Ability to commit to the full two-week program (July 21–August 1, 2025, Monday–Friday, 4 hours per day)
- Resident of Iowa
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Benefits
- Mentorship from researchers in the cancer science field
- Network of faculty and peers across program sites
- Targeted career development workshops with professionals in cancer research and care
- Lab kits for the experiments related to the program
- $500 taxable stipend
Program Dates
The ACS Cancer Research High School Program is a two-week, part-time, virtual program running held on weekdays, July 21–August 1, 2025.
Admission
Applications for Summer 2025 are CLOSED.
Apply online at: https://redcap.icts.uiowa.edu/redcap/surveys/?s=C9APMY7LCH3E9XHE
To expediate your application process, you could have these items ready:
- Parent/guardian available to give consent for the minor to participate, as well as provide parent/guardian's email address
- Current GPA and list of courses taken in high school
- Consent from a teacher that can provide a short recommendation for you to participate - provide their name and work email address. Please select someone who can reflect on your interest in science, your ability to work with other students in an educational setting, and your ability to honor commitments and deadlines.
- Personal statement essay prompts:
~ Of the learning opportunities related to careers in science and medicine, why have you chosen to apply to the CRHSP? For example, you might discuss how the program relates to your academic and career plans, the nature of your interest in cancer, or what you hope to gain from the experience. (250 words or less)
~ What qualities and experiences do you have that best prepare you for the scientific and professional demands of this program? (250 words or less)
~ Scientific progress depends on unique expertise and perspectives. Tell us about an aspect of your own perspective, viewpoint, or lived experience that is important to you, and describe how it shapes the way you would learn from and contribute to the CRHSP community. (250 words or less)
~ Is there anything else important for us to know about you? (250 words or less)
Accessiblity Request
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact STEM-K12-Cancer@uiowa.edu in advance.