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CURE Summer Only Program for Out-of-State Research-Active Institutions (CURE-RAI)

The Continuing Umbrella of Research Experiences (CURE) Program for out-of-state students at Research-Active Institutions (CURE-RAI) is a full-time, paid, rigorous 11 week summer research internship in Boston, Massachusetts for students interested in pursuing a career in scientific research. Through engagement in mentored summer cancer research projects, scientific and professional skills training, and networking and social events, students will acquire scientific knowledge and technical skills and increase their understanding of how to conduct biomedical research. 

The CURE-RAI Program is for undergraduate students attending research-active institutions outside of the state of Massachusetts, including but not limited to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), and other Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs). This includes colleges and universities that have historically not been recognized for high research activity, such as institutions that offer few or no doctoral programs. We are committed to equal opportunity and nondiscrimination for all persons.

CURE - RAI Applications are due February 6th, 2026.
Click HERE to apply!

 

Program Features

  • Hands-on, Cutting Edge Cancer Research
  • Mentorship from Leading Scientists
  • Summer Stipends
  • Scientific Skills Training
  • Research Seminars
  • Journal Club
  • Social Events
  • Career Exploration
  • Professional Development
  • Abstracts and Presentations
  • Present at and attend conferences
  • Networking

Eligibility and Application


Undergraduate students attending out-of-state research-active institutions, including but not limited to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), and other Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs). This includes colleges and universities that have historically not been recognized for high research activity, such as institutions that offer few or no doctoral programs. We are committed to equal opportunity and nondiscrimination for all persons.

TO BE ELIGIBLE YOU MUST:

  • Attend college or university at an institution outside of Massachusetts
  • Be a college freshman, sophomore, or junior
  • Be willing to relocate to Boston, Massachusetts for the duration of the summer program
  • Be a US citizen or permanent resident

REQUIRED APPLICATION COMPONENTS INCLUDE:

  • Completion of an application form
  • Copy of transcript or report card from most current school and year
  • Current résumé
  • TWO Letter(s) of Recommendation (maximum of three; one of these letters must be from a science or mathematics teacher/professor)

Training Program News and Highlights

Program Highlights


Research Experience

Each student is paired with a research mentor for a full-time, hands on, authentic research experience. In addition to learning new scientific knowledge and acquiring technical skills, students also experience first hand the process of scientific discovery and observe in real time real world applications of advancements in scientific knowledge. At the end of the summer, students write up their newfound knowledge and scientific work in an abstract and present at our final presentation event.

Professional Development

The CURE program provides a comprehensive orientation program to prepare students for success in professional environments, particularly in the realm of scientific research at our academic hospitals. The summer is also filled with opportunities for social engagement, professional networking, resume building, career exploration, and personal development.

Scientific Knowledge and Skills Training

CURE students have access to a plethora of scientific knowledge and skills training opportunities, including scientific seminars, responsible conduct of research training, and journal clubs to learn to dissect scientific literature.

Networking and Community

Opportunities to expand personal and professional networks are plentiful throughout the summer. Students participate in organized career networking roundtables, conduct informational interviews to explore their personalized academic and career interests, and meet a wide variety of scientific professionals. They are also encouraged to build connections with their peers in the program to develop community through social events and team building days such as our annual visit to Hale Reservation. They are also connected with our extensive alumni network!