A summer research fellowship offered by ASTRO for medical students to explore radiation oncology. This award provides funding for an 8-week mentored research project in radiation oncology, including exposure to clinical practice and research methodologies in rad onc . It aims to cultivate interest in the field among medical students (particularly those early in training) by supporting a hands-on research experience and clinical shadowing in areas like radiobiology, radiation physics, or clinical radiation therapy trials.
Eligibility Criteria:
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Enrolled medical students (MD or DO programs) in any year (with preference to first- or second-year students) interested in radiation oncology
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Must secure a mentor who is an ASTRO member and a faculty radiation oncologist or radiobiologist at the host institution
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The research project can be basic, translational, or clinical, but should be related to radiation oncology (e.g., a lab project on radiation sensitizers or a clinical study on treatment outcomes)
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ASTRO membership for the student is required (complimentary for medical students) and the student is expected to consider radiation oncology residency in the future
Funding Details:
- $4,000 stipend for the 8-week full-time research period.
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$1,000 upon completion and submission of final research report.
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$1,000 travel subsidy to attend the ASTRO Annual Meeting the following year (to present findings).
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- $6,000 award for the student , typically allocated as:
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The student’s mentor receives an additional $2,000 honorarium (through the ASTRO–BCRF Mentor Award) to support their role and project expenses.
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Awardees are invited to ASTRO’s Annual Meeting and recognition events (registration fee waived).
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Deadline:
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February 12, 2026 – Application deadline for the ASTRO Medical Student Fellowship (summer 2026 placements).
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Selections announced by April 2026, allowing students to arrange research and any necessary elective time.
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Fellowship projects occur roughly June–August 2026; final reports due fall 2026.
Where to go for further information:
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Contact: education@astro.org – ASTRO Education Department can help students find potential mentors and answer questions about the application.