2026 Biomedical & Bioinformatics Research Internship and Training Experience (B-BRITE) at the Knight Cancer Institute
The Biomedical & Bioinformatics Research Internship and Training Experience (B-BRITE) aims to inspire curiosity in the next generation of research scientists by providing upper-level undergraduates hands-on research opportunities at the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute and an introduction to cancer research career paths.
The B-BRITE summer internship program seeks highly motivated college students interested in exploring biomedical research as a career path. B-BRITE interns will work directly with accomplished mentors during an 8-week immersive research experience from June 22 to August 14, 2026. Interns will work in Knight Cancer Institute laboratories at the Oregon Health & Science University campus in Portland, Oregon.
The B-BRITE Summer Program at the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute offers:
- Participation in a guided research project facilitated by an experienced researcher.
- Hands-on experience in cutting-edge biological and/or quantitative cancer research methods.
- An introduction to experimental design and data analysis.
- Educational and professional development seminars and trainings.
- Development of written and oral communication skills, including preparing and presenting a scientific research poster.
- Networking within a broad community of scientists.
- Stipend of $4,500 for the full 8-week program.
- Limited need-based housing and travel support may be available.
Eligibility
- We are looking for motivated college undergraduates with a strong interest in a career in biomedical and data sciences who have completed foundational introductory science courses. Depending on a student’s research interests, this might include biochemistry or computer science courses.
- Applicants will have completed at least two undergraduate years but will not have graduated by the start date of the program in June 2026.
- Students must be available and present for the entire duration of the internship, from June 22 – August 14, 2026. No vacations or breaks may be taken. A commitment of 40 hours per week is required, including time spent on research and educational programming.
- Visa sponsorship is not available for this program. International students enrolled at a U.S. institution with a valid visa may be eligible to participate, subject to approval from their designated school official.
- Students must be at least 18 years of age by the start of the B-BRITE program in order to participate.
Undergraduates with strong motivation for gaining hands-on research experience, including first generation college students, those from low socioeconomic backgrounds and those at schools without comparable research facilities, are encouraged to apply. While prior experience in research is not required to participate in the B-BRITE Summer Program, successful applicants will have skills important for contributing to a research group such as curiosity, teamwork, resilience, creativity, and problem solving.
Application:
Our application consists of a form requesting information about you and your research experience and interests.
We also request the name and contact information of at least one, and no more than two, professors or supervisors who can provide letter(s) of recommendation commenting on your potential to be successful working in a basic science research environment.
In addition to completing the application form, you will need to submit the following:
- Resume/CV (highlight science courses and any lab or work experience, if applicable).
- Unofficial college transcript(s) from the past 12 months (if selected, official transcripts may be requested).
- A one-page (single-spaced) essay explaining your motivation for applying to the B-BRITE program at the Knight Cancer Institute. In your response, describe a personal, academic, or professional experience that sparked your interest in cancer research. What aspects of cancer biology, treatment, or prevention are you most curious to explore through laboratory or computational research? Why are you specifically drawn to the research environment and mission of OHSU and the Knight Cancer Institute? Finally, how do you envision this summer experience shaping your long-term career in cancer research or related fields?
All applications and materials MUST be submitted by 11:59 p.m. PST on Thursday, January 22, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted. Notifications will be sent out in early March 2026.