Programs

Chicago EYES (Educators and Youth Enjoy Science)

The University of Chicago

Chicago EYES (Educators and Youth Enjoy Science) on Cancer is a cancer research training program for high school and college students interested in careers in biomedicine. The program also welcomes secondary science educators.

For two consecutive summers, participants work full time in the laboratories of established cancer researchers at the university. Rigorous research training is complemented with a cancer-based summer lecture series, year-round career development and skill-building workshops, and a network of faculty and peer mentors dedicated to participants’ success. The program culminates in a research symposium to showcase participants’ work across basic, translational, clinical, and population-based areas of cancer research.

Chicago EYES on Cancer is funded by a grant from the National Cancer Institute in addition to generous donations. Programming is provided in part through a partnership with the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago.

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Program Components

Primary Areas of Focus
  • Recruitment (i.e. increasing awareness of and/or stimulating interest in health profession careers and degree programs
  • Retention or completion of health professions degree programs (support for those currently enrolled)

Program Locations

Cook County / Chicago, IL

  • In-person
    University of Chicago

Program Components
  • Academic support (e.g. tutoring, progress monitoring)
  • Mentoring (e.g. pairing with current health profession student)
  • Networking (with others who have similar health career interests)
  • Research experience (e.g. summer program)
    For two consecutive summers, participants work full time in the laboratories of established cancer researchers at the university.

Participants and Eligibility

Education Levels
Health Professions

Program Sustainability

Affiliated Organizations and Networks

National Cancer Institute
Museum of Science and Industry-Chicago

Applications and Costs

Eligibility Criteria
  • Racial or ethnic group membership
    Priority is given to applicants from groups underrepresented in biomedicine, encompassing all relevant social, behavioral as well as health sciences. Applications are encouraged from any individual with demonstrated commitment to increase the full participation of underrepresented groups in biomedicine
Required Application Components

Admission to Chicago EYES on Cancer is highly competitive. Approximately ten new students are selected each year. Selection is based on applicants’ stated interest in the program, academic record, and third-party recommendations. Applications are generally accepted mid-November through mid-January for the subsequent summer.

To apply:

Review the application packet for students.
Submit the online application form for students.
Arrange for two individuals (at least one teacher/professor) to complete the online applicant recommendation form.
Applicants who advance to the second round: Complete an in-person interview with the program leadership team (scheduled in February).

Program Costs

This program is free to participants.

Contact Information

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Contact

Megan Mekinda, PhD. Assistant Director for Cancer Education

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