The ALSF POST Program provides funded summer research internships in pediatric oncology labs for undergraduate, graduate, and medical students. The program’s aim is to cultivate the next generation of pediatric cancer researchers by offering an enriching, hands-on experience. Under the guidance of a pediatric oncology mentor, students work on a defined research project – ranging from lab experiments to clinical data analysis – and learn about the process of pediatric cancer research and patient care. Many POST Program alumni go on to pursue medical or doctoral training in oncology.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Students in good standing at accredited institutions: this includes advanced undergraduates (typically juniors/seniors), graduate students (Master’s or PhD track), and medical students interested in oncology research.
- Must secure a commitment from a pediatric oncology researcher (the mentor) who will supervise the project. The mentor applies jointly with the student, detailing the proposed project and learning objectives.
- Expected to commit ~8–10 full-time weeks in the summer of 2026 to the research. Students from institutions lacking pediatric cancer research (or underrepresented in science) are encouraged to apply, as ALSF aims for broad outreach.
Funding Details:
- Student Stipend: Approx. $5,000 for the summer (paid via the mentor’s institution to cover living expenses).
- Research Support: An additional $2,000 is provided to the mentor’s lab to offset project consumable costs (e.g., lab reagents, patient sample processing) and to support the student’s research activities.
- ALSF may also cover travel for the student to present their work at an ALSF Young Investigator Summit or relevant conference, as applicable.
Deadline:
- Application Due: February 17, 2026 (8:00 PM ET).
- Award notifications by late March 2026. Internships are expected to take place roughly between May – September 2026, depending on the student’s academic schedule.
Where to go for further information: