Summer Undergraduate Research Program (Cech Fellows Program)

The Summer Undergraduate Research Program, known as the Cech Fellows Program, gives undergraduates in the life sciences the chance to conduct hands-on research alongside leading scientists at HHMI laboratories across the United States, including universities, research institutions, and HHMI's Janelia Research Campus outside Washington, DC. Students work full time in an HHMI lab for the summer, learning techniques in fields such as cell biology, genetics, and neuroscience under close mentorship, and receive a stipend to cover summer travel, housing, and living expenses. The program includes a virtual seminar series with HHMI scientists, professional development sessions, and an end-of-summer research symposium at HHMI's Janelia campus where participants present their work and connect with a national cohort of peers. The program is named for Prof. Thomas R. Cech, former HHMI President and Nobel laureate who established the Janelia Research Campus and championed undergraduate research opportunities.