Aspirnaut™ Summer Research Internships are hands-on and mentored laboratory experiences for undergraduate students interested in a career in the fields of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM). Participants reside on the campus of Vanderbilt University for ten weeks, conduct biomedical research at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and are given an opportunity to interact with university faculty and administrators. Since 2009, the program has had over 187 undergraduate participants. Over 99% of participants persist in a STEM major throughout college, and 87% pursue advanced STEM degrees or directly enter the STEM workforce after graduation. Each participant receives a stipend of $650 per week (paid monthly), which is intended to cover all costs associated with participation in the program, including housing, food, and travel to and from Nashville.
What our students will do
Participants are embedded in a biomedical research laboratory as a member of a team of research scientists and engage in activities that develop professional skills and promote self-discovery. Students conduct their own research and gather results that contribute to the data and goals of the larger research team. At the conclusion of the experience, students present their research to peers and mentors through oral and poster presentations. If offered by KUH, participants may have opportunity to attend the NIDDK/KUH Summer Undergraduate Research Conference at the end of the program (costs are covered). The 2027 conference dates and location to be determined.
Application Deadline
The deadline for receipt of application and all supporting material is on January 13, 2027, at 11:59 pm Central Standard Time. For more information, please visit our website at www.aspirnaut.org. Please reach out directly to the contact information provided below with any questions or concerns.