The Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) is committed to providing research opportunities to all undergraduate students, with special interest in applications from students who are typically under-represented within fields of science, technology and engineering. These include African-Americans, Latino and Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, Pacific Islanders and disabled individuals. WFIRM is an equal opportunity employer.
Application Process
The WFIRM Summer Scholars 10-week program begins annually in June, ending in August.
Student must meet the following criteria to be considered:
- Have a cumulative GPA of 2.85 or higher (4.0 scale).
- Be a citizen or a permanent resident of the U.S. or be eligible to work at Wake Forest for the 10-week summer program.
- Be enrolled in a degree-granting program at a college or university in the U.S., Puerto Rico or other U.S. territory.
- Pursuing a 2-year or 4-year degrees in biology, biotechnology, engineering, bioengineering, biotechnology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, pre-medicine, or other related science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) field.
- Have completed at least two semesters of undergraduate education by the start of the incoming summer program.
- Have a strong interest in pursuing a graduate, PhD or MD degree.
- Be at least 18 years of age by the first day of program.
Required Documentation
As part of the application process, prospective applicants will need to submit the following documentation:
- Completed online application form
- One letter of recommendation
- Official academic transcripts (emailed or mailed)
Submitting an Application
Applicants must complete the online application. The letter of recommendation and transcripts can be sent via email to summerscholar@wakehealth.edu or mailed directly to Joan F. Schanck, Chief Education Program Officer, Summer Scholars Director at:
Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine
Attn: Joan F. Schanck, MPA
Richard H. Dean Building
391 Technology Way
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
The following Q&A is intended to provide general information about the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine Summer Scholars Program focused on translational regenerative medicine.
How should I respond to the essay questions?
Each of the essay questions should be answered separately with each response limited to 500 words in length. Do not exceed the word limit.
Who should write a letter of recommendation on my behalf?
While we cannot recommend who should write a letter of recommendation on your behalf, we encourage you to find individuals who can best speak to your qualifications, character, interest and commitment to engaging in research and advance education and training in STEM disciplines broadly, as well as and to extent possible, regenerative medicine more specifically.
Will I be penalized if my recommendation letter is sent in late?
Yes. All application materials, including letters of recommendation and transcripts, must be submitted on or before the application deadline. Letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the due date. Your application will still be reviewed, but you will be penalized for your missing letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation and transcripts may be emailed or summerscholar@wakehealth.edu or postal mailed to the attention of Joan F. Schanck, MPA, Director, Summer Scholar Program, Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157-7290.
Do you have to be a U.S. citizen to apply?
In order to be eligible, you must be U.S. citizen or a permanent resident of the U.S. or be eligible to work in the U.S. at WFIRM for the 10-week summer program. International students who currently have a J-1 or F-1 visa and who are already attending school in the United States are eligible to apply.
Do you have to be in college to apply?
Yes. You must be currently enrolled at time of application in a degree-granting program at an undergraduate college, community college or university in the U.S., Puerto Rico or other U.S. territory.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes. Applicants must be 18 years of age on or before the first day of the 10-week summer scholars program, and meet the following additional criteria:
- Have a cumulative GPA of 2.85 or higher (4.0 scale)
- Have completed at least two semesters of undergraduate education by the start of the current Summer Scholar Program
- Have interest in pursuing a PhD and/or MD
Can I mail a hard copy of my application?
No. We cannot accept hard copies of applications. Only on-line applications will be reviewed; however, official transcripts and letters of recommendation may be emailed or postal mailed as described above.
Equal Employment Opportunity
It is the policy of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center to administer all educational and employment activities without discrimination because of race, sex, age, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran status (except where sex is a bona fide occupational qualification or a statutory requirement) in accordance with all local, state, national laws, executive orders, regulations, and guidelines.
To Be Considered: Send cover letter detailing interest, a current CV and two letters of recommendation to tbowen@wakehealth.edu
See all available job opportunities at Wake Forest Baptist Health. Applicants must have authorization to work in the U.S.