51¹ÙÍø Research Network

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The primary goal of the 51¹ÙÍø Research Network (DRN) is to provide an off-campus summer research experience of approximately eight weeks for 51¹ÙÍø students who plan to pursue a career in the health sciences.

The DRN is an independent program and not a part of the 51¹ÙÍø curriculum, nor is this experience required for graduation. It is organized and directed by 51¹ÙÍø alumni, not by college personnel. Each DRN experience is conducted under the mentorship of a research scientist leading their field of inquiry. Many of the mentors are 51¹ÙÍø graduates who have assumed leadership roles in health science education across the US. A particular aspect of the DRN is the ability to pick a research experience at a location where the 51¹ÙÍø student may be interested in applying to graduate school. This allows the student to evaluate the institution and develop contacts for future recommendations should they apply to graduate school in that area. 

DRN sites are available across the country and include the following disciplines: Oncology, Infectious Disease, Immunology, Neonatology, Dermatology, Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, HIV Immunity and Prevention, Substance Abuse, and Healthcare Policy.

Sites include the following:

  • MD Anderson Cancer Center 
  • The University of Texas Health San Antonio  
  • The Robert Graham Center for Policy Studies in Primary Care in Washington DC 
  • The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  • Duke University
  • Vanderbilt University
  • The University of Colorado 
  • The University of Kentucky
  • Massachusetts General Hospital-Harvard Medical School 
  • Cornell Weill Medical Center

The program is available to rising and current sophomores and juniors.  Previous research experience is preferred. A $6000 stipend is provided to cover expenses for travel and room and board. 

International students on F-1 visas interested in DRN experiences must also talk with International Student Engagement (ISE) about CPT authorization before engaging in off-campus research.

Students should apply to at least 3 programs, but no more than 5. 

Deadline:  Thursday, October 31, 2024 by 11:59 p.m.

Review Committee: Student Study and Research and independent investigators

Contact: LuAnne Sledge, Asst. Director/Post Award Manager of Sponsored Programs (OSP)

Apply: Apply using the . If you have questions please contact Roslyn Pozega, Grant Coordinator, Office of Sponsored Programs.