The U-RISE program is designed to train students interested in pursuing a PhD in the biomedical sciences develop as scientists and researchers. Students interested in joining the newly launched U-RISE program should fill out the below application. You can submit your application to be considered for the 2025 – 2027 cohort below!
Qualifications/Requirements:
- Students should be in their Sophomore or Junior years when applying (Transfer students are welcome to apply before they begin at Rutgers Camden). The U-RISE program is a two-year commitment during their Junior and Senior undergraduate career, but we sometimes accept one-year appointments.
- US Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Students can not work off-campus jobs while a U-RISE Fellow
- Students must be full-time status while a U-RISE Fellow
- Our goal is to enrich our program with diverse perspectives and experiences, focusing on the contributions candidates can make towards an inclusive academic environment. The selection is based on:
- Demonstrated commitment to creating an inclusive training environment that helps all participants overcome barriers to academic success. We value a range of experiences, including overcoming socioeconomic challenges, educational disadvantages, and other significant obstacles, without limiting eligibility based on race, ethnicity, age, or gender.
- Enrollment in an eligible STEM major, such as biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, mathematics, and computer science, which supports the program’s academic diversity and interdisciplinary research goals
- A clear intention to pursue advanced degrees (Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D.) and a research career, demonstrating the potential for significant contributions to the scientific community.
Application Materials
We understand this may be your first time applying to a program of this nature so we’re happy to help! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Drs. Lee or Fried.
- Personal statement: In 1-2 pages, describe why you’re a good candidate and how the U-RISE program will help you achieve/explore your scientific goals/interests. We want to understand WHY you want to pursue a research career. Feel free to also include any details about how your own background may have made navigating an academic career more challenging than traditional students and/or your commitment to fostering an inclusive research environment.
- In the letter, please indicate two potential U-RISE mentors (at least one of which is at Rutgers–Camden) who you would like to work with (see U-RISE Mentors page). While you may highlight a faculty mentor you’re interested in for your application, we’ll work with selected fellows to find a perfect match.
- CV/resume: Include your accomplishments, awards, jobs, etc.
- Unofficial Undergraduate Transcript: While we do not base our decision purely on GPA, this gives us a holistic view of your academic performance during review. If transferring into Rutgers Camden, please include unofficial transcripts from previous undergraduate institutions.
- Letter of recommendation (recommended, but not required): The letter should be from a faculty member you have either been taught, mentored, or advised by. Reach out to your letter writers early!
Application Process
- Submit your application here.
- Recommendation letters can be submitted here.
- Application deadline is rolling from January 1, 2025 with a hard deadline of April 1, 2025! Don’t delay your submission! We review applications on a rolling basis up until this deadline, so applying earlier is encouraged!
- If selected, you will begin your first 10-week summer research experience as a U-RISE Fellow on June 1.