HHMI Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (Cech Fellows Program)

HHMI is a private biomedical research institution founded in 1953. HHMI invests in scientists at all career stages who make discoveries that advance human health and our fundamental understanding of biology. The Institute also supports innovative approaches to science education and public engagement to energize the next generation of scientists and foster public appreciation for science.  

The HHMI Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (Cech Fellows Program) is a paid, nine-week summer research experience for rising juniors and seniors designed to empower the next generation of scientific leaders. Through the summer, students will: 

• Work full time conducting research and contributing to ongoing projects in an HHMI laboratory 
• Learn and practice new techniques and approaches in disciplines such as cell biology, genetics, neuroscience, and more 
• Work closely with and be mentored by exceptional scientists, from lab heads to PhD students 
• Build critical thinking and communication skills necessary for future research careers 

This immersive program gives students the chance to contribute to real scientific discovery, gain professional mentorship, and explore potential careers in biological and biomedical research. No prior lab experience is required.  

Key Dates  

• November 17, 2025  
  Application window opens 
• December 22, 2025 
  Application window closes 
• January 9, 2026 
• Letter of recommendation due 
• Spring 2026 
  Applicants notified 
• June 15-August 14, 2026 
  Summer Undergraduate Research Experience dates 

Eligibility  

The program is open to: 

• Rising juniors and rising seniors enrolled full-time at an accredited US institution at the time of the program’s start date 
• US citizens, nationals, permanent residents, visa holders, and others with lawful immigration status and valid work authorization through at least August 14, 2026 (HHMI does not sponsor visas for this program) 
• Those able to travel to the host lab in which they are matched and secure their own housing (the provided stipend may be used for these expenses) 
• Those with a strong interest in lab research — although no prior research experience is required 

Compensation & Benefits 

• Stipend: $15,000 (or $12,000 + included housing if matched at Janelia Research Campus)  
• Not included: travel, housing, meals, insurance, or incidentals. On-campus housing is included for those matched at Janelia Research Campus  
• Support: Upon acceptance and lab matching, you will receive a local contact who will provide suggestions for possible local housing options. You are expected to arrange your own housing (except for students matched at Janelia) and travel to arrive at your host institution by June 15, 2026. 

More information about the program can be found by visiting https://www.hhmi.org/programs/cech-fellows