Skip to main
University-wide Navigation

The Undergraduate Summer Training in Cardiovascular Research (USTiCR) program at the University of Kentucky is a 10-week undergraduate research experience supported by the Cardiovascular Research Priority Area (CV RPA).  During the program, students work full-time in the laboratories of a faculty mentor from one of the eight participating colleges, thus creating the opportunity for diverse projects in population-based, basic, translational, and clinical research.  Beyond the laboratory, students also participate in additional programming including scientific presentations, social events, and professional development conversations.  The primary goal of the program is to provide undergraduates with a foundation for making career choices in biomedical sciences.

While previous research experience is a plus, it is not required to participate.  Students can come to the program with an established project in a CV-related lab or we can match students to a mentored project closely associated with their interests.  To be eligible for the program, students must be entering at least their sophomore year of an undergraduate program in Fall 2024.

How to Apply

Program Details

Dates – June 3, 2024 – August 9, 2024

Stipend - $6000

Research Activities– Full-time for 10 weeks in the laboratory of a CV RPA-affiliated faculty.

Career Development Activities – Each Friday at noon during the 10-week course, students will present research, listen to faculty presentations on career-relevant topics, and have social opportunities.

USTiCR Showcase on August 9, 2024 – Each participant will present their research in a poster session.

Cardiovascular Research Day on September 20, 2024 – Each participant can present their work in competition for podium presentations, poster pitches, and poster presentations.
 

Application Requirements

Application Requirements:

Complete the application form here and upload the following documents combined into one PDF labeled as LastName_FirstName_Application.pdf. Apply by February 29, 2024.

CV or Resume

Research Statement (1 page limit) – Provide a brief description of your past and current research experience.  If you are applying to the program with a project/mentor already established, describe that project including who your mentor is.   If you do not have research experience, please describe how gaining research experience will help you reach your career goals.  Research experience is not required to participate in this program. 

Transcript – We do not require an official transcript.

Letter of Reference - Provide one letter of reference from a faculty member or other mentor that can speak to your research experience or your academic endeavors. Letters can be submitted as part of your application packet, or the mentor can email the letter to Tanya Graf at tanya.graf@uky.edu

Program Leadership