Mount Sinai Undergraduate Internship Programs: A Comprehensive Guide

Mount Sinai offers a range of undergraduate internship programs designed to foster the development of future leaders in biomedical sciences. These programs provide invaluable hands-on research experience, mentorship, and networking opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers as research scientists. The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai is committed to fostering the development of future leaders in the field of biomedical sciences by providing a multidisciplinary learning environment that is inclusive and designed to support students from diverse backgrounds. This article explores the various internship opportunities available at Mount Sinai, with a focus on the Summer Undergraduate Research Program for Underserved Scholars (SURP4US) and research volunteer opportunities.

Summer Undergraduate Research Program for Underserved Scholars (SURP4US)

Overview

The Summer Undergraduate Research Program for Underserved Scholars (SURP4US) is an excellent opportunity for college students interested in the biomedical sciences who are socioeconomically disadvantaged and/or have limited access to hands-on research opportunities. It is a non-degree, non-credit undergraduate experience for juniors or seniors interested in pursuing careers as research scientists (future PhD and MD-PhD graduate applicants only). The Summer Undergraduate Research Program for Underserved Scholars (SURP4US) is an ideal program for passionate undergraduates from underserved and/or socioeconomically disadvantaged groups, with a strong interest in biomedical research and pursuing a career in the field.

Program Details

SURP4US runs for ten weeks from June to August. Each year, the program admits and enrolls a diverse group of 15-20 students from various regions across the country. Once accepted, students are matched with a mentor from the Graduate School faculty, based on their desired research area.

Key Benefits

Research Experience: Participants gain hands-on experience in biomedical research, working alongside experienced researchers and faculty.
Mentorship: Students receive guidance and support from a dedicated mentor, who provides advice on research projects, career development, and graduate school applications.
Stipend and Housing: SURP4US scholars receive a $5,000 stipend and housing allowance to help cover living expenses during the program.
Social Events: SURP4US students actively participate in various social events throughout the NYC area, such as a fun-filled day at Central Park, engaging activities in Harlem, and an entertaining Trivia Night.
Networking: The program provides opportunities to network with fellow students, faculty, and researchers, building valuable connections for future career opportunities.
Exposure to Research: “The SURP4US seminars were truly an information hub and exposed me to research projects, technical equipment, and procedures in various departments in the institution.

Application Process

The application cycle typically opens annually on October 1 and closes on January 10 of the next year for enrollment in the following summer. The application requirements include:

A completed online application form.
Copies of transcripts are sufficient for the application process.
Three letters of recommendation. It is strongly recommended that at least two letters of recommendation are from someone who knows you very well and can attest to your passion and commitment to research and science.

Important Notice

SURP4US will not be offered in Summer 2026. The program is scheduled to reopen in Fall 2026 for Summer 2027.

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Testimonials

The impact of SURP4US on its participants is evident in their testimonials:

“SURP4US was a pivotal moment for my scientific development."
"The summer I spent in SURP4US served as a springboard for all my following research and career aspirations."

These quotes highlight the transformative nature of the program and its ability to inspire and empower students to pursue careers in biomedical research.

Research Volunteer Opportunities

Overview

Mount Sinai offers research volunteer opportunities for individuals interested in gaining experience in basic science or clinical research. Students have the opportunity to assist the professional research staff. Due to program limitations, Mount Sinai is only able to accept applications from people who already have assignments with a Principal Investigator (PI) at this time. At this time, volunteer opportunities for current employees are limited.

Types of Volunteer Roles

Basic Science Volunteers: Basic science volunteers at Mount Sinai assist laboratory staff with carrying out research techniques.
Clinical Research Volunteers: Clinical research volunteers assist the research staff with a variety of tasks, including data entry and collection and compiling study documents. Clinical research volunteers assist with clinical research projects in a variety of ways, including confirming and scheduling appointments; data collection, entry, and analysis; and compiling and submitting essential documents in accordance with institutional guidelines. 16 and 17 year olds may only assist with data entry.

Responsibilities

Volunteer responsibilities vary depending on the specific research project and the volunteer's skills and experience. Common tasks include:

Assisting with data collection and entry
Compiling and organizing research documents
Scheduling and confirming appointments
Performing basic laboratory techniques
Analyzing data
Submitting essential documents in accordance with institutional guidelines

Benefits

Hands-on Experience: Volunteers gain practical experience in a research setting, working alongside experienced researchers and staff.
Skill Development: Volunteers develop valuable skills in data collection, analysis, and research techniques.
Networking: Volunteering provides opportunities to network with researchers and other professionals in the field.
Contribution to Research: Volunteers contribute to important research projects that can have a positive impact on human health.

How to Apply

Thank you for your interest in becoming a Mount Sinai Research Volunteer. Due to program limitations, Mount Sinai is only able to accept applications from people who already have assignments with a Principal Investigator (PI) at this time.

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