Cancer Research

For high school and college students with a deep interest in pursuing careers in medicine and the life sciences.

Hands-on cancer immunotherapy exploration

Students will dive deeper into experimental design and execution with a focus on cutting-edge techniques in the field of cancer immunotherapy. Building on the foundational skills acquired in Molecular Biology 1, students will explore the mechanisms of how immune cells can be engineered to target and destroy cancer cells.

The course covers the principles of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) design, genetic modification techniques, and the latest developments in cancer treatment. Through hands-on experiments, students will gain practical insights into the therapeutic potential and challenges of CAR-T cell therapy, preparing them for further studies focused on optimizing treatments for cancer patients.

Prerequisite: Completed Molecular Biology 1 and 2 with University Lab Partners

Proudly supported by Thermo Fisher Scientific - Tagline logo

Spring 2026 Schedule

Tuesdays from February 3, 2026 - April 21, 2026 | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

No class the week of February 16, 2026.

Enrollment is open on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached our until applications close on January 28, 2026.

Location: ULP at Soka | 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

Tuition is $1,850 and includes all laboratory materials.

Summer 2026 Schedule

Mondays from June 8, 2026 - August 10, 2026 | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

ROCK the Science Showcase: Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 4:00 PM - 7:30 PM.

Enrollment is open on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached our until applications close on June 2, 2026.

Location: ULP at Soka | 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

Tuition is $1,850 and includes all laboratory materials.

For High School, Undergraduate, and Post-Graduate

This experience will offer students the next step in training by providing meaningful molecular biology skill development.

Learn cutting-edge
life science research techniques

Hands-on research methodology training and mentorship alongside industry professionals.

Gain a competitive advantage when entering higher education or the workforce

Gain hands-on technical training so you have that relevant 1st experience on your resume.

Prepare a poster presentation with your curated research

Participants have the unique opportunity to present their research to industry professionals & researchers at ROCK the Science on August 7, 2025.

Scholarship Opportunities Available

Our mission is to develop the next generation of life science talent through education and workforce development programming, focused on engaging high school and college student populations historically underrepresented in STEM careers.

All participants are considered for need-based scholarships at the time of application. There is no additional application.

The tuition is $1,850 (includes all laboratory materials).

How do I apply?

You can use the Yellow Button at the top of the page to apply.

What is the tuition for the program?

All participants are considered for need-based scholarships at the time of application. There is no additional application. ULP will notify scholarship recipients at the time of acceptance.

The tuition is $1,850 (includes all laboratory materials).

Click here to view the refund policy.

What are the prerequisites?

Particpants must have taken Molecular Biology 1 and Molecular Biology 2 with ULP.
Participants must be 14 years or older and have completed high school biology.

What will I learn?

Students will explore the mechanisms of how immune cells can be engineered to target and destroy cancer cells. The course covers the principles of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) design, genetic modification techniques, and the latest developments in cancer treatment. Through hands-on experiments, students will gain practical insights into the therapeutic potential and challenges of CAR-T cell therapy, preparing them for further studies focused on optimizing treatments for cancer patients.

Where is the class taught?

The class is taught at University Lab Partners at Soka University.

1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

Who is the program taught by?

Click here to view the Education Team.

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