High School, College, Postbacc

You will work in a cancer research environment, getting hands-on experience you will not find in any classroom. You will spend time alongside scientists and use state-of-the-art technology. You will learn what a research career is really like, develop a wide range of skills, and take part in groundbreaking cancer discoveries that change the world, one experiment at a time. 

You will be assigned your own mentor and advisor, who will oversee your research and offer guidance. In addition to working on a research project, you will benefit from program activities such as:   

• Attending scientific research and professional development seminars 
• Comprehensive orientation 
• Journal club that will assist with navigating scientific papers 
• Panel discussions and events that feature STEM careers in academia, industry, and government agencies 
• Networking and social events 
• Preparation of an abstract and final presentation, helping to develop your writing, speaking, and presentation skills

Building the next generation of the cancer workforce

Since 2002 the Harvard Cancer Consortium (HCC) CURE Program has prepared 850+ promising high school, college, and post-baccalaureate students for future careers in cancer research, medicine, and public health through paid, mentored internships with faculty across Harvard Cancer Consortium member institutions.

Our Vision: A representative workforce that eliminates health disparities in cancer prevention, outcomes, care, and survivorship.

Our Mission: To encourage scientific curiosity and promote the academic success and future research careers of promising young scientists by placing them in paid, high-quality mentored internships with Harvard Cancer Consortium faculty.

How we serve

The HCC CURE Program expands access to cancer research training for students from a range of academic and personal backgrounds to cultivate enthusiasm for science and prepare students for success in cancer research careers. CURE students engage in authentic, hands-on mentored research projects under the guidance of cancer consortium faculty, participate in scientific and professional skills training, build community with peers, explore future careers, and expand personal and professional networks. 

This initiative extends across Harvard Cancer Consortium member institutions, with students placed at Boston Children’s Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and Massachusetts General Hospital.

Why it matters

With more than 800 students trained, the program’s impact is clear: 89% of participants currently in the workforce have pursued careers in medicine, biomedical research, and public health — all fields dedicated to improving patient outcomes and driving scientific progress. As demand for oncology services increases in the US, the cancer workforce of the future must be prepared to address increasing demand for cancer care services and provide culturally competent care. Early research training is a powerful way to expand access to opportunity and bridge gaps in preparation for careers in cancer research and healthcare, ensuring that future scientists and clinicians are prepared to address the scientific and human challenges of cancer care.