PLSI

PennLab Summer Internship

PennLab Summer Internship (PLSI)
 

Program Description

PLSI is a nine (9) week paid summer research internship program that will allow students who are underrepresented in medicine* and interested in STEM, to work on a research project in conjunction with a mentor. Interns will gain valuable exposure and experience while exploring the different areas in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine including Surgical Pathology, Molecular Pathology, Microbiology, Cytopathology, Transfusion Medicine, and Coagulation.

The summer research internship experience includes working directly with a mentor to conduct a research project, professional development workshops, participating in lab and social engagements, and a final research presentation.

Accepted intern participants will be paired with a mentor. Research projects will be decided between the intern and mentor based on areas of interest. Mentors’ areas of interest can be viewed here.

Selected candidates must be available to participate for the duration of this 9-week program and be prepared to work on-site, 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday.

The internship begins on Monday, June 2, 2025, and ends on Friday, August 1, 2025.

Interns will receive a $6,000 stipend and an iPad.

*Under-represented in Medicine (URM) refers to individuals from a background that is traditionally underrepresented in medicine, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, identify as LGBTQ+, have disabilities, are first generation in the United States or first in their immediate family to attend college, or who otherwise would increase the diversity and inclusivity of our student and resident/fellow populations.

*Penn Medicine is an equal opportunity employer and adheres to a policy that prohibits discrimination on the basis of ancestry, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected class.

Eligibility

  • University of Pennsylvania student currently enrolled in an undergraduate program (including rising seniors)
  • Successfully completed at least 1 year of undergraduate studies by the start of the internship
  • Interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) – No previous research experience is required
  • Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 ("B") or higher
  • Applicants must have completed at least 1 year of Biology and Chemistry
  • Demonstrate an interest and potential to pursue a career in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine

Application Requirements

  • Completed online application – click HERE TO ACCESS
  • Resume
  • Unofficial copy of transcript
  • Statement of personal interest and goals – see guidelines below
  • Two letters of recommendation – see guidelines below

Statement of Personal Interest and Goals

We’d like to know more about you and why you’re interested in this internship. In your own words, describe your career goals and motivation for wanting to participate in this research internship. Please include your area(s) of research interest or the faculty mentors with whom you would like to work with during the program. Your personal statement should not exceed 500 words.

Letters of Recommendation

Two individuals familiar with your academic capabilities and potential for work in pathology and laboratory medicine should complete the letter of recommendation. The letters should be uploaded into the application system. You will have the ability to send the link within the system. Please send the link to the recommender in enough time to ensure the recommendation letter is submitted before the application deadline.

Application Timeline

Applications Open: Monday, December 16, 2024
Application Deadline: Friday, February 7, 2025, at 11:59 pm.