Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Summer Research Program

The Summer-Only Continuing Umbrella of Research Experiences (CURE) program, hosted by the Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center (DF/HCC), is a highly competitive, full-time, paid 7-11 week summer research internship for students pursuing careers in scientific research, particularly cancer research. Participants engage in hands-on, mentored projects in basic, clinical, population science, or nursing research at DF/HCC member institutions including the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston's Longwood Medical Area. The program provides rigorous scientific training through seminars, journal clubs, and responsible conduct of research sessions, alongside professional development opportunities such as orientation, resume building, career exploration, and networking roundtables with scientists and alumni.

Undergraduates participate from May 26 to August 7, 2026, while high school students join from June 15 to August 7, 2026. Students write research abstracts and present at a final event, fostering skills in scientific communication and discovery. Social events and team-building activities build community among peers. The program requires full-time commitment, five days a week, and is designed to prepare students for biomedical research careers by immersing them in authentic lab environments and real-world applications of scientific advancements.