Washington University Pediatric Center of Excellence Summer Scholars Program

The Washington University Pediatric Center of Excellence in Nephrology (WUPCEN) is pleased to request applications for our 2026 Summer Research Scholars Program. This program aims to inspire future leaders in pediatric kidney disease research by engaging students in meaningful research and clinical experiences in kidney development, biology, cutting-edge technologies, preclinical model systems, critical thinking, and pediatric nephrology. 

The program is open to undergraduate and medical students interested in biological research or medicine. Start and end dates are usually the first business day in June through the last business day in July, but some flexibility is allowed as academic schedules may vary for each student; however, an 8-week commitment is required. Students will work with a mentor on a research project and will have opportunities for didactic training and clinical shadowing in nephrology. Through seminars and lectures, students will learn about the research process and careers in medicine and research. 

Students will receive an approximately $4,500 stipend, though the final amount will vary. Please note: housing is not provided as a part of the program although paid housing options through Washington University may be available. 

The program structure includes: 

Practical research training and mentorship 

Responsible Conduct of Research training (including, as applicable to the research project: human subjects research, animal care and use in research, laboratory safety) 

Full-time research experience on a clinical, translational, or basic science project under the mentorship of a PCEN investigator 

Weekly meetings with a PCEN faculty mentor 

Preparation of an abstract and/or manuscript, as appropriate 

Oral presentation of research findings to the Division of Pediatric Nephrology at the end of the program 

Career development and ethics workshops 

Seminar series on various topics 

Pediatric Summer Research Program lectures 

In-house computer labs and pathology labs 

Didactic training 

Participation in Pediatric Nephrology Fellow's Core Curriculum weekly lecture series – provides exposure to core clinical pediatric nephrology topics and opportunities to interact with pediatric nephrology fellows 

Research Seminars: students will participate in weekly student led seminars or lab meetings as appropriate based on their research project and mentor.  Depending on the number of students, this may include a student-run journal club and discussion on research presentations. 

Online Instruction: Students will have access to various online training in kidney development, single cell genomics, patient recruitment, and sample processing, disease models, etc. 

Each student is placed in a kidney lab for their hands-on experience. 

Clinical shadowing in pediatric nephrology 

Observe pediatric nephrology clinic 

Attend inpatient rounds 

End of Year Program Feedback 

Program feedback will be solicited via survey 

Eligibility 

*Must be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university. For Foreign student applicants, eligibility may need to be determined based on visa regulations.   

How to apply 

Applications for the Summer Scholars Program are open. Apply today! 

Deadline to apply is February 28, 2026 

Questions? 

Contact Melanie Ribar, program coordinator, or Dr. Sanjay Jain/Dr. Carmen Halabi, program directors via the email address pcen@wustl.edu. 

Sample Schedule 

Actual work hours are flexible, but a full-time (40 hours per week) commitment is expected. To ensure maximum productivity and engagement with your mentor and research staff, the majority (>70%) of the working hours are expected to be during regular business hours Monday through Friday.  

Example of lecture series can be found here. 

Scientific Seminars and Symposia 

The WUPCEN strives to foster opportunities for innovative multidisciplinary collaborations by 

• Hosting an annual joint Nephrology Research Seminar 

• Participating in the National O’Brien Centers Kidney Seminars (NOCKS) to promote regular scientific interactions between participating centers. The schedule of upcoming events and links to register are available. 

• Engaging with the community and patient interest groups by implementing an annual Pediatric Kidney Disease Symposium and virtual education sessions.