Pathways Undergraduate Researchers is a competitive, full-time, paid summer internship program for college/university students who have graduated high school but not yet entered their third year. The program is specifically designed for students who haven't had extensive research experience. Interns are paired and immersed in nine weeks of mentored activities in a Fred Hutch research group in Seattle. Interns also participate in a cancer biology education series, attend professional development workshops and enjoy social activities with their teams and peers. Interns are paired and immersed in nine weeks of mentored activities in a Fred Hutch research group in Seattle. Interns also participate in a cancer biology education series, attend professional development workshops and enjoy social activities with their teams and peers.
Interns spend the majority of the nine-week session under the guidance of a mentor in a Fred Hutch research group. During the first week, interns meet as a cohort for an orientation to the program and to learn laboratory safety and hands-on research techniques. The remaining eight weeks focus on mentored research activities, which interns present to the Fred Hutch community on the final day of the program.
Each week on Friday, interns participate in professional development workshops designed to advance their knowledge and competence in three areas:
- Scientific practices and the latest advances in cancer research.
- Professional development on different career paths within science/cancer research.
- Social networking and building a community in science/cancer research.
Interns also attend workshops on a variety of topics, including resumes and personal statements, effective mentor/mentee relationship, oral and written communication skills and preparing for life after college.
The program sponsors social activities to develop a supportive community among the interns and their mentors and colleagues at the Hutch.
Location(s)
- Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
Schedule
- June 15 - August 14, 2026
Cost/Compensation
- Interns will be paid a stipend for the summer and receive a free ORCA card for Seattle-area public transportation
Eligibility Requirements
The Pathways Undergraduate Researchers internship is open to students who have graduated high school but not yet entered their 3rd year and who:
- Are or will be enrolled in a two- or four-year college/university
- Have a strong academic background with a scientific focus
- Will be 16 years or older by start of program, June 15, 2026
- Are committed to the full nine-week program in Seattle
- Can participate in Zoom interview with selection panel
Deadline
- February 13, 2026
Application or Entry Requirements
- Completed online application
- Resume
- Short essays
- Two letters of recommendation
Notifications of Decisions
Financial Aid Details
- Additional funding may be available for travel to/from Seattle and research-related expenses, including special research materials and supplies.
Other Dates to Keep in Mind
Have other questions?
Fred Hutch Cancer Center unites innovative research and compassionate care to prevent and eliminate cancer and infectious disease. Founded in 1975 in Seattle, Washington, ‘The Hutch’ is driven by the urgency of its patients, the hope of its community and a passion for discovery to pursue scientific breakthroughs and healthier lives for all people. In 1998, Fred Hutch united Seattle Cancer Care Alliance and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center as an independent nonprofit organization and now serves as the cancer program for University of Washington Medicine. This unique relationship allows for enhanced care coordination with one of the world's leading integrated health systems.
