ONCORE Youth Summer Programs
A passion for science can blossom early, and at MD Anderson, we believe nurturing that curiosity is crucial to building a future without cancer.
MD Anderson’s Oncology Network for Career Opportunities and Research Empowerment (ONCORE) initiative supports outreach programs that help middle school and high school students explore their interests in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
These programs offer students a glimpse into real-world research environments, exposure to STEM careers and opportunities to engage with world-renowned cancer experts. Programmatic activities may include lectures, symposiums and poster presentations; observational laboratory activities and guided lab tours; structured mentorship sessions; and demonstrations of clinical simulations featuring mannequins or training equipment.
ONCORE supports short-term educational programs (STEP), which can last up to five days, as well as longer-term programs that extend up to six weeks. Appointments are made through three distinct tracks:
- Middle School Youth Programs | Ages 12-14
STEP appointments: Up to 5 consecutive days
- High School Youth Programs | Ages 15-17
STEP appointments: Up to 5 consecutive days
Longer-term appointments: Up to 6 weeks
All Summer 2026 applications are due by April 30.
Middle School Opportunities
Eligibility Requirements
All ONCORE participants must be currently enrolled in middle or high school, able to provide an official Spring 2026 transcript and demonstrate interest or aptitude in science, biology, medicine, or related fields.
Middle School Youth Program applicants (short-term appointments up to five consecutive days) must fulfill the following application requirements:
- Proof of enrollment
- Cerfiticate of health statement
Program-specific eligibility requirements may also apply.
Contact Information
ETyouth@mdanderson.org
Division of Internal Medicine (One Day)
The Division of Internal Medicine (DoIM) Summer Youth Program is a dynamic summer enrichment program designed to introduce motivated middle school and high school students to the world of cancer science, health care careers and biomedical research. Hosted within the Division of Internal Medicine in a leading cancer hospital, this program provides students with a rare, immersive opportunity to explore how clinicians, scientists, nurses and allied health professionals work together to advance cancer care and improve patient outcomes.
Over the course of the program, students participate in hands on laboratory activities, interactive workshops, hospital-based learning experiences, and mentorship sessions with oncology professionals. Through exposure to real-world clinical environments and cutting-edge research, students gain a deeper understanding of cancer biology, prevention, treatment, and the human impact of cancer care. The DoIM Summer Youth Program is designed to empower young learners to envision themselves as future leaders in health care and scientific discovery. By fostering curiosity, confidence, and early career exploration, the program helps students build a strong foundation for future academic and professional success.
Program Modality
In-person
Program Schedule
9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Multiple cohorts available: June 26, July 10, July 17, July 24, or July 31
Once accepted, students will be assigned to a cohort on a first-come, first-served basis.
Educational Objectives
The program aims to:
- Build foundational knowledge in cancer science
- Develop hands-on research and laboratory skills
- Increase awareness of health care and research careers
- Strengthen critical thinking and communication skills
- Promote health literacy and community awareness
- Foster long-term engagement in STEM and medicine
Future MD Anderson Nurses: Junior Edition (One Day)
The Future MD Anderson Nurses: Junior Edition program is a dynamic, observational experience designed to introduce middle school students to the exciting and meaningful work of oncology nursing. Through activities and engaging discussions, students will explore the exciting world of oncology nursing while building foundational skills in science, empathy and teamwork.
Department
Nursing Workforce Planning and Development
Program Modality
In-person
Program Schedule
9 a.m.-1 p.m.
July 29
Educational Objectives
Students will:
- Expand their understanding of the various career opportunities available in oncology nursing.
- Be able to describe the basic roles and responsibilities of oncology nurses.
- Demonstrate teamwork, empathy and communication skills through engaging activities.
- Be able to identify a path to prepare for future opportunities in nursing.
Hematopoietic Biology and Malignancy (Five Days)
This five-day middle school enrichment program introduces students ages 12–14 to cancer research and biomedical science through structured, age-appropriate and fully supervised activities.
Participants will observe laboratory research, attend interactive lectures, engage in simulated experimental exercises, analyze publicly available cancer datasets, and interact with faculty, trainees and staff. The program emphasizes scientific thinking, teamwork, ethics and career exploration in medicine and research.
The target audience is motivated middle school students with strong academic interest in science, medicine and engineering.
Department
Hematopoietic Biology and Malignancy
Program Modality
In-person
Program Schedule
9 a.m.-2 p.m.
June 22-26
Educational Objectives
By the end of the program, participants will:
- Understand basic principles of cancer biology and biomedical research.
- Describe how laboratory discoveries translate into patient treatments.
- Demonstrate introductory skills in data analysis using public scientific datasets.
- Apply scientific reasoning through team-based projects.
- Explore careers in medicine, research and biotechnology.
- Practice responsible conduct and laboratory safety awareness.
High School Programs
Eligibility Requirements
All ONCORE participants must be currently enrolled in middle or high school, able to provide official Spring 2026 school transcripts and demonstrate interest or aptitude in science, biology, medicine, or related fields.
High School Youth Program applicants (longer-term appointments up to six weeks) must fulfill the following application requirements:
- Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of enrollment
- Personal statement
- One letter of recommendation
High School Youth STEP applicants (short-term appointments up to five consecutive days) must fulfill the following application requirements:
- Proof of enrollment
- Cerfiticate of health statement
Program-specific eligibility requirements may also apply.
Contact Information
ETyouth@mdanderson.org
Division of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine (One Day)
The Division of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine (DACCPM) Summer Bootcamp program is designed to facilitate opportunities for high school students aged 15-17 years old to gain exposure to the speciality of Anesthesiology. Program participants will have an opportunity to engage with physicians, certified registered nurse anesthesists (CRNAs) and certified anesthesia assistants (CAAs). The presentations will highlight "a day in the life of..." as well as provide detailed guidance on how to prepare now for future success. This program will give insight into the differences in educational requirements, training and career paths. Students will also have the oppotunity to participate in hands-on workshops and become certified in Basic Life Support after successful completion of a course.
Department
Division of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine
Program Modality
In-person
Program Schedule
7:30 a.m.- 4 p.m.
July 9
Educational Objectives
Upon completion of the observer experience, participants will be more familiar with the educational and training requirements necessary to obtain entry to medical, CRNA and anesthesiology assistant (AA) school. Participants will successfully complete three workshops (airway, suture and stop the bleed). Participants will also obtain a Basic Life Support Certification.
Division of Internal Medicine (Three Days)
The Division of Internal Medicine (DoIM) Summer Youth Program is a dynamic summer enrichment program designed to introduce motivated middle school and high school students to the world of cancer science, health care careers and biomedical research. Hosted within the Division of Internal Medicine in a leading cancer hospital, this program provides students with a rare, immersive opportunity to explore how clinicians, scientists, nurses and allied health professionals work together to advance cancer care and improve patient outcomes.
Over the course of the program, students participate in hands on laboratory activities, interactive workshops, hospital-based learning experiences, and mentorship sessions with oncology professionals. Through exposure to real-world clinical environments and cutting-edge research, students gain a deeper understanding of cancer biology, prevention, treatment, and the human impact of cancer care. The DoIM Summer Youth Program is designed to empower young learners to envision themselves as future leaders in health care and scientific discovery. By fostering curiosity, confidence, and early career exploration, the program helps students build a strong foundation for future academic and professional success.
Program Modality
In-person
Program Schedule
9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Multiple cohorts available: June 22-24, June 29-July 1, July 6-8, July 13-15, July 20-22, or July 27-29
Once accepted, students will be assigned to a cohort on a first-come, first-served basis.
Educational Objectives
The program aims to:
- Build foundational knowledge in cancer science
- Develop hands-on research and laboratory skills
- Increase awareness of health care and research careers
- Strengthen critical thinking and communication skills
- Promote health literacy and community awareness
- Foster long-term engagement in STEM and medicine
Genomic Medicine (Four Weeks)
This four-week, hands-on summer program introduces high school students to the fundamental principles of cancer biology and recombinant DNA technology. Designed as an immersive learning experience, the program blends interactive lectures, laboratory simulations, case-based discussions, and mentored inquiry to expose students to how modern biomedical research is conducted. Participants will explore how genetic alterations drive cancer, how recombinant DNA tools are used to study disease, and how laboratory discoveries translate into diagnostics and therapies.
The purpose of this program is to inspire and prepare the next generation of biomedical scientists, clinicians, and innovators by providing early exposure to cancer research and molecular biotechnology. The program aims to demystify laboratory research, cultivate scientific curiosity, and build foundational skills in experimental design, data interpretation and ethical reasoning in biomedical science.
Key Activities
Foundational Lectures and Workshops
- Introduction to cancer biology (oncogenes, tumor suppressors, mutations)
- Basics of molecular biology and recombinant DNA technology
- Overview of research pipelines: from hypothesis to publication and clinical impact
Laboratory-Based Learning (Hands-on or Simulated)
- DNA extraction, restriction enzyme digestion and ligation concepts
- Plasmids, bacterial transformation and gene expression
- Polymerase chain reaction, gel electrophoresis and DNA visualization
- Introduction to sequencing and genetic analysis in cancer research
Case Studies & Translational Focus
- Real-world examples of cancer discoveries and targeted therapies
- How recombinant DNA technology enables diagnostics, vaccines and therapeutics
- Ethical considerations in genetic engineering and cancer research
Research Skills Development
- Scientific literature reading and interpretation
- Experimental design and troubleshooting
- Data analysis and presentation skills
Capstone Project
- Team-based mini research proposal or poster presentation
- Students synthesize what they learned to address a cancer-related question using recombinant DNA approaches
Career Exploration and Mentorship
- Discussions with researchers and clinicians
- Overview of careers in cancer research, biotechnology and medicine
Target Audience
- Highly motivated high school students (typically grades 9–12)
- Students with an interest in biology, medicine, biotechnology or STEM careers
- No prior laboratory experience required; basic high school biology recommended
Department
Genomic Medicine
Program Modality
Hybrid
Program Schedule
June 22-July 17
Educational Objectives
By the end of the four-week program, participants will be able to:
1. Foundational Knowledge
- Explain the basic biological principles underlying cancer development, including genetic mutations, oncogenes, and tumor suppressor genes.
- Describe the core concepts of recombinant DNA technology and its role in modern biomedical research.
2. Technical and Analytical Skills
- Demonstrate understanding of common molecular biology techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, plasmid cloning, and bacterial transformation.
- Interpret experimental data and simple genetic results in the context of cancer research.
3. Apply basic principles of experimental design, including hypothesis formation, controls, and reproducibility.
- Scientific thinking and communication
- Read and critically evaluate simplified scientific literature related to cancer and molecular biology.
- Communicate scientific ideas clearly through oral presentations, posters or written summaries.
- Collaborate effectively in teams to solve scientific problems and complete a capstone project.
4. Translation and Career Awareness
- Identify pathways by which laboratory discoveries are translated into cancer diagnostics and therapies.
- Gain awareness of educational and career pathways in biomedical research, biotechnology, and medicine.
Imaging and Innovation Summer Immersion Program (Two Weeks)
The Imaging and Innovation Summer Immersion Program is a 10-day educational experience designed to introduce students to the diverse world of medical imaging, artificial intelligence (AI) in health care, and medical physics. Throughout the two week period, participants will explore the roles of medical physicists, AI scientists, and clinicians through interactive lectures, hands-on experiments, behind the scenes tours and applications in clinical translation. Each day highlights a specific specialty area, giving students an authentic view of life inside major medical and research environments.
Department
Imaging Physics
Program Modality
In-person
Program Schedule
9 a.m.- 4 p.m.
July 6-17
Educational Objectives - Week 1
Monday – Introduction to Medical Imaging
- Understand the purpose and structure of the Summer Immersion Program.
- Identify major areas within medical imaging and clinical physics.
- Recognize the roles of health care professionals involved in imaging.
- Build rapport with peers through introductory and team-based activities.
- Gain familiarity with the facility layout and key program spaces through guided tours.
Tuesday – Computed Tomography (CT) Physics Day
- Describe the basic principles of CT imaging.
- Understand how x-rays interact with the body to create CT images.
- Observe how radiologists interpret CT scans in a clinical workflow.
- Perform a basic CT related hands-on activity to explore data acquisition or reconstruction.
- Recognize the responsibilities of a CT physicist within a health care system.
Wednesday – AI in Medicine
- Understand foundational concepts of AI and machine learning.
- Identify common clinical applications of AI in medical imaging and diagnostics.
- Explore how clinicians evaluate and integrate AI tools into patient care.
- Participate in a hands-on activity to visualize how AI models learn and make predictions.
- Recognize the role of an AI scientist in developing safe, effective health care tools.
Thursday – Imaging in the Surgical Suite
- Understand how imaging technologies are used in the operating room.
- Identify the various ways surgeons rely on imaging for planning and real time guidance.
- Observe workflows and communication between surgical staff and imaging specialists.
- Participate in a hands-on surgical themed experiment exploring procedural imaging.
- Recognize the responsibilities of physicists who support surgical imaging environments.
Friday – Magnetic Resonance (MR) Physics
- Describe the basic physical principles underlying MRI.
- Understand how magnetic fields and radio frequency pulses generate images.
- Observe how radiologists interpret MR images across different anatomical regions.
- Complete a hands on MR focused activity demonstrating concepts like contrast or signal.
- Recognize the role of an MR physicist in ensuring image quality and patient safety.
Educational Objectives - Week 2
Monday – Ultrasound Physics
- Understand the physical principles of ultrasound, including sound waves and tissue interaction.
- Learn how ultrasound images are formed and interpreted.
- Explore the role of an ultrasound physicist in clinical practice.
- Perform hands-on ultrasound scanning to understand image acquisition.
Tuesday – Image Guided Therapy Physics
- Understand how imaging technologies guide therapeutic procedures.
- Learn the physics behind image guided interventions (e.g., fluoroscopy, CT, MRI).
- Observe the workflow of an interventional radiologist.
- Participate in a hands-on activity simulating image guided procedures.
Wednesday – Nuclear Medicine Physics
- Understand the principles of radioactive decay and tracer imaging.
- Learn how nuclear medicine images are captured and interpreted.
- Explore safety considerations when working with radiopharmaceuticals.
- Participate in a hands-on activity demonstrating nuclear imaging concepts.
Thursday – Optical Imaging Physics
- Understand how light interacts with tissues to form images.
- Learn the principles behind fluorescence, bioluminescence and other optical modalities.
- Explore clinical and research applications of optical imaging.
- Participate in hands-on optical imaging activities.
Friday – Wrap Up and Integration Day
- Synthesize concepts learned across all imaging modalities.
- Reflect on personal interests in medical imaging, AI and clinical science.
- Participate in a culminating academic activity reinforcing key program themes.
- Prepare a takeaway summary or presentation of what they learned.
Neuroradiology (Four Weeks)
The Summer Research and Observation Program in Neuroradiology is a four-week immersive experience designed for motivated high school students with a strong interest in medicine, neuro, or radiology research. Hosted by the department of Neuroradiology, this program offers a unique opportunity to explore the field of neuroradiology through hands-on research and direct observation at one of the world’s leading cancer centers.
Students will be paired with neuroradiology faculty mentors and assist in data collection, literature reviews and preparation of content for publishable research articles. In addition to research exposure, participants will have the opportunity to observe daily operations within neuroradiology reading rooms and attend educational conferences, including case-based lectures and multidisciplinary tumor boards.
By combining academic research with daily observation, this program aims to inspire the next generation of health care leaders and offer insight into the world of academic medicine and oncologic imaging.
Department
Neuroradiology
Program Modality
In-person
Program Schedule
8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
June 22-July 17
Educational Objectives
By the end of the four-week program, students will be able to:
1. Understand the role of neuroradiology in the diagnosis and management of brain, spine and head and neck tumors.
2. Demonstrate foundational research skills, including:
- Conducting literature reviews using PubMed and institutional databases
- Extracting, organizing and analyzing research data under faculty supervision
3. Gain exposure to workflows, including:
- Observing radiologists interpret complex imaging studies
- Learning about imaging modalities such as MRI, CT and PET
- Attending case conferences and tumor boards to understand multidisciplinary care
4. Practice professional communication, such as:
- Presenting research progress to mentors and peers
- Asking questions and engaging in clinical discussions respectfully and professionally
- Students will give a brief presentation summarizing what they learned and observed during the four-week program
5. Understand research and clinical ethics and patient confidentiality, including HIPAA compliance and the role of integrity in medical research.
6. Explore career pathways in radiology, medicine, and research through mentorship, observation and reflection.
Ovarian and Endometrial Cancer Research (Six Weeks)
The Ovarian and Endometrial Cancer Research Program is focused on studying various key aspects of cancer such as i) understanding the molecular and cellular processes that are involved in the development and progression of cancer, ii) testing the efficacy of novel drugs for cancer prevention and treatment. One such project in our laboratory is aimed at identifying novel mutations, including RNA fusions that can be targeted for development of a cancer vaccine. In this summer project, students will have the opportunity to be involved in a project that is focused on validating the expression of our in-silico predicted fusion transcripts in ovarian and endometrial cancer samples.
Key activities include performing polymerase chain reaction (PCR), running gels and preparing samples for sequencing. During the course of this internship, students will have the opportunity to learn various translational reserach techniques such as cell culture, cell proliferation, RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, PCR and western blotting assay. Students will be trained on conducting literature search and taught how to design a small research project aimed at understanding cancer development or testing the efficacy of a drug treatment on cancer cell growth. In addition, students will also be taught key steps involved in writing a research article.
This internship is suitable for high school students who are currently enrolled in a science or STEM stream, have attention to detail and possess a strong interest in pursuing scientific discovery in future. Students must demonstrate their interest in science and experience through their consistent participation in science or STEM activities, volunteering, or club memberships. Students with teacher recommendation attesting these key experience and good conduct will be good fit for this program.
Department
Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine
Program Modality
In-person
Program Schedule
8 a.m.-5 p.m.
June 22-July 31
Educational Objectives
During the six-week week period, high school students will have the following three learning objectives:
- Education of lab safety and study of cancer research assays: Candidates will be taught various translational research techniques such as cell culture, cell proliferation, RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, PCR and western blotting assay.
- Learn biology of cancer development: Students will be trained on conducting literature search and develop a small research project aimed at understanding cancer development or testing the efficacy of a drug treatment on cancer cell growth.
- Training on writing a research/ review article: Students will be taught various components of a scientific article and the steps involved in writing a research article.
Vascular and Interventional Oncology (Six Weeks)
The Vascular and Interventional Oncology Learning Experience for Teens (VIOLET) is a six-week hybrid research program designed to introduce high school students to the dynamic field of vascular and interventional oncology. Hosted at MD Anderson, VIOLET offers a unique opporunity for students in the Houston area to explore cancer resarch, imaging science and minimally invasive therapeutic innovations through hands-on and virtual learning experiences.
VIOLET aims to inspire the next generation of physician-scientists and biomedical innovators by engaging students in authentic research environments and exposing them to the interdisciplinary nature of cancer treatment and discovery. Participants gain foundational skills in experimental design, data analysis, scientific communication and professional development - while cultivating curiousity, confidence and scientific literacy.
Key Activities:
- Hands-On Research Experience (in person): Students will work under the guidance of mentors in interventional radiology research labs, conducting supervised experiments, collecting and processing data, and learning basic laboratory techniques relevant to vascular and cancer imaging research.
- Career and Academic Development (virtual): Through interactive workshops, students will learn how to write research abstracts, prepare scientific posters and deliver oral presentations. Sessions will also cover topics such as career pathways in medicine and reserach, responsible conduct of science and academic writing.
- Near-Peer Mentoring: Undergraduate, medical, graduate student and postdoctoral mentors provide individualized guidance, support and insight into navigating STEM education and research opportunities.
- Final Exposition: At the conclusion of the program, students will present their findings in oral and poster formats at the Interventional Radiology Research Meeting, gaining real-world experience in communicating scientific work.
Department
Interventional Radiology
Program Modality
Hybrid
Program Schedule
8 a.m.-5 p.m.
June 22-July 31
Educational Objectives
By the end of the VIOLET program, participants will be able to:
- Understand the fundamentals of vascular and interventional oncology, including the role of image-guided therapies in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
- Apply basic research principles by participating in supervised laboratory experiments, learning how to design studies, collect and analyze data and interpret findings.
- Demonstrate effective scientific communication by writing an abstract, preparing a scientific poster and delivering an oral presentation to a professional audience.
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through analysis of experimental results and engagement in group discussions and mentor-guided reflection.
- Gain familiarity with biomedical imaging techniques and their applications in translational and clinical research.
- Explore academic and career pathways in medicine, biomedical engineering and cancer research through seminars, mentorship and near-peer interaction.
- Practice ethical and professional conduct in research, including data integrity, collaboration and respect for laboratory safety protocols.
- Build confidence as emerging scientists by engaging with real-world research teams and contributing to an interdisciplinary scientific community.
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