Summer Research Experience

Summer program for talented high school students with a deep interest in pursuing careers in medicine and the life sciences.

Learn technicals skills in biomedical research

Students will learn cell culture and molecular biology techniques that are performed in research and development immuno-oncology laboratories. Students will acquire vital research skills and learn how biotechnology laboratories harness the surveillance mechanisms of immune cells to create cancer therapeutics. This program will also teach students how to research and read scientific papers, how to design experiments, and how to display and discuss their findings.

At the end of the program, students will present their research to industry professionals and mentors at ROCK the Science on August 12th.

Prerequisites: Participants must be 14 years or older and have completed high school biology.

Tuition: $5,000

Proudly supported by Thermo Fisher Scientific - Tagline logo

Course Info and Schedule

Mondays - Thursdays: June 8, 2026 - August 13, 2026 | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Rock the Science Showcase: August 12, 2026 | 4:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Applications close on June 2, 2026.

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

For High School Students

This experience will offer the next step in training for students by providing meaningful skill development in a hands-on research project.

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 12, 2026.

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

What are the program dates?

Mondays - Thursdays: June 8, 2026 - August 13, 2026 | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Rock the Science Showcase: August 12, 2026 | 4:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Applications close on June 2, 2026.

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

How do I apply?

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

ULP will be reviewing applications and sending email notifications of acceptance on a rolling basis.

What is the tuition for the program?

All students 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 $5,000 (includes all laboratory materials).

ULP's refund policy can be found here.

What are the prerequisites?

Participants must be 14 years or older and have completed high school biology.

Where is the class taught?

The class is taught at ULP @ Soka 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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