NextGen Cancer Scholars: ACS Cancer Research Fellows Program
***IMPORTANT: Do Not Apply Through Handshake!***
Applications must be submitted using the official application form. Handshake is for posting and information purposes only.
Program Overview
The NextGen Cancer Scholars: ACS Cancer Research Fellows Program is a two-year, full-time, paid postbaccalaureate fellowship sponsored by the American Cancer Society and hosted by the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center.
This program is designed to prepare recent college graduates (particularly individuals from communities historically underrepresented in biomedical research) for doctoral training in cancer research and health-related professions (e.g., PhD, MD, MD/PhD).
Compensation & Duration
- $50,000 annual stipend ($100,000 total over two years)
- 2 fellows will be selected for each cohort
- Full-time commitment for the 2026-2028 cohort
Program Components
Mentored Research Experience
Each fellow will be matched with a USC faculty mentor and integrated into a cancer research team in areas such as cancer biology, population science, clinical research, or related disciplines.
Under close mentorship, fellows will:
- Design and conduct an original, hypothesis-driven cancer research project
- Gain hands-on laboratory or data analysis experience using modern research methods
- Develop and submit a research proposal with iterative mentor feedback
- Prepare written reports (preliminary, midpoint, and final)
- Draft a manuscript suitable for publication
- Present research findings at internal seminars and national conferences
- Build skills in critical thinking, scientific writing, data interpretation, and presentation
Fellows are expected to devote 90–95% of their time (35–38 hours/week) to research activities. Limited time is allocated to coursework and professional development.
Professional Development
Fellows participate in structured training designed to strengthen readiness for doctoral programs, including:
- Graduate and professional school application preparation
- Fellowship and funding strategies
- Career development workshops and advising
Graduate-Level Learning
Fellows will participate in seminars and coursework focused on cutting-edge cancer research topics and methodologies.
Networking & Collaboration
The program offers opportunities to build meaningful professional relationships with peers, faculty mentors, and leaders in the cancer research community.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Background: Identify as a member of a racial or ethnic group historically underrepresented in biomedical research, as defined by the NIH
- Education: Current senior or recent graduate (within one year) with a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field
- GPA: Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in the final academic year
- Career Goals: Intend to pursue a doctoral degree in STEM or a health-related profession
- Program Commitment: Must participate full-time; fellows may take up to two courses per semester
Application Process & Timeline
Step 1: Submit a Statement of Interest by Friday, May 29, 2026
Step 2: Selected applicants will be notified and matched with a faculty mentor
If you have any questions, reach out to acs-dicr@usc.edu