NextGen Cancer Scholars: ACS Cancer Research Fellows Program at USC
DO NOT APPLY ON HANDSHAKE! APPLY ON OUR PORTAL
NextGen Cancer Scholars: ACS Cancer Research Fellows Program at USC
Sponsored by the American Cancer Society, the NextGen Cancer Scholars: ACS Cancer Research Fellows Program is a two-year, full-time, paid fellowship designed to prepare recent college graduates – particularly those from communities historically not represented – for doctoral training in cancer research and health-related professions.
The USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center has received funding to support four fellows, each receiving a $50,000 annual stipend ($100,000 total for two years).
Components of our program include:
Mentored Research Experience
Fellows will be matched with a faculty mentor and research team in cancer biology, population science, clinical research, or other 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 techniques and tools
- Develop and submit a research proposal with iterative mentor feedback
- Prepare written reports (preliminary, mid-point, and final), a draft manuscript, and a final manuscript suitable for publication
- Present findings at internal seminars and national conferences
- Build skills in critical thinking, scientific writing, data interpretation, and presentation
Fellows are expected to dedicate 90–95% of their time (35–38 hours/week) to their research activities, with limited time allocated to coursework and professional development.
Professional Development Opportunities
Participation in training designed to enhance fellows’ readiness and competitiveness for doctoral degree programs, including sessions on applying to graduate school, crafting compelling applications, and securing funding.
Graduate-Level Learning
Participation in seminars and coursework where fellows engage with cutting-edge cancer research topics and methodologies.
Networking and Collaboration
Opportunities to build professional connections with peers, mentors, and role models in the cancer research community, fostering long-term relationships and collaborations.
Eligibility Requirements
- Applicants must identify as members of racial or ethnic groups from communities historically not represented in biomedical research, as defined by NIH.
- Educational Background: Applicants must be a current senior or a recent graduate (within one year) with a bachelor’s degree in any STEM field.
- GPA Requirement: A minimum of 3.0 cumulative GPA in the final academic year is required.
- Career Goals: Applicants must intend to pursue a doctoral degree in any STEM (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics) discipline or health profession
- Program Exclusivity: Applicants must commit to participating full-time in the fellowship program. You are allowed to take up to two courses per semester.
How to Apply
- Submit your Statement of Interest. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; the application portal will close at 5:00 PM (PST) on Sunday, July 13, 2025.
- Step 2: If selected by the Committee, you will be informed and matched with a mentor.
You can find more info on our program on our website; if you have any questions, reach out at acs-dicr@usc.edu.