CHOP Research Internship for Scholars and Emerging Scientists (CHOP-RISES)

This 6-week summer internship is designed for rising juniors who bring unique perspectives, contributing to a research environment that is more inclusive, innovative, and representative of diverse experiences. CHOP-RISES I offers:

• Hands-On Lab Training: Work alongside top researchers in cutting-edge labs, learning essential techniques and how science drives advances in child health.
• Career-Building Workshops: Explore diverse STEM-M careers, receive mentorship, and prepare for college success.
• Personal Growth: Engage in reflective discussions that build critical thinking and self-awareness.

The program concludes with a final presentation, where students showcase their achievements to mentors and family. Participation in CHOP RISES II and III requires prior completion of CHOP-RISES I, emphasizing skill progression.

"I have learned the importance of networking and making connections with others. Previously, I felt that I could make it anywhere on skill alone. Now, I understand that meeting new people and building relationships can open opportunities I never would have been able to have without them."

Building on the foundation established in CHOP-RISES I, successful graduates are eligible to participate in CHOP-RISES II, an 8-week internship providing rising seniors the opportunity to deepen their skills, assume leadership roles, and make significant contributions to advancing scientific discovery. CHOP-RISES II offers:

• Research Specialization and Projects: Students select a research track based on their interests, develop essential technical skills, and complete an independent research project, demonstrating their ability to contribute meaningfully to their assigned research team.
• Collaboration and Skill Building: Weekly team lunches provide opportunities to share progress, foster collaboration, and participate in skill-building activities.
• Mentorship Training and Leadership: Participants receive mentor training and serve as mentors to CHOP-RISES I students, cultivating leadership and communication skills while fostering a supportive program community.

At the end of the summer, students deliver a poster presentation of their research project to our CHOP community and their family members alongside our undergraduate scholars participating in the CHOP Research Summer Scholars Program (CRISSP).

Building on the experiences and skills developed in CHOP-RISES II, high school graduates are invited to return for an optional third summer, CHOP-RISES III. This phase allows CHOP-RISES alumni to continue their professional development by engaging in hands-on research, refining leadership skills, and contributing to impactful scientific discoveries. Scholars are invited to return for 4-7 weeks, based on availability, to further explore the many possibilities in research. CHOP-RISES III provides:

• Research Specialization and Projects: Students select a
• research track based on their interests, develop essential technical skills, and have the option to complete an independent research project demonstrating their ability to contribute meaningfully to their assigned research team.
• Collaboration and Skill Building: Weekly team lunches provide opportunities to share progress, foster collaboration, and participate in skill-building activities.
• Mentorship Training and Leadership: Participants receive mentor training and serve as mentors to CHOP-RISES I and II students, cultivating leadership and communication skills while fostering a supportive program community.

At the end of the summer, students who complete a full 7-weeks may deliver a poster presentation of their research project to our CHOP community and their family members alongside our CHOP-RISES II students and undergraduate scholars participating in the CHOP Research Summer Scholars Program (CRISSP).

Unfortunately, you are not eligible for CHOP-RISES. You must currently be a sophomore, rising junior in the fall.

Unfortunately, you are not eligible unless you are 16 years old by June 16, 2025. Per CHOP Policy, participants must be over 16 to work in research labs.

If you are not currently vaccinated for COVID-19, you may participate in CHOP-RISES I. However, you must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (receipt of the first two doses, no booster shot

required to date) before the start of CHOP-RISES II, unless you have a medical exemption. Proof of medical exemptions are required for participation.

CHOP-RISES is a very rigorous program. Participants may not work or take classes during the week. Vacation plans must be disclosed and will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. We reserve the right to reject applicants or rescind offers due to competing commitments that impact participation.

Unfortunately, if you have not participated in CHOP-RISES I, you are not eligible for CHOP-RISES II or III. This program is designed for skill progression.

You must meet all the following criteria:

• Must be a rising junior at a public or charter school in the City of Philadelphia
• Must be 16 years old by June 16, 2025
• Must be a student who faces barriers to participating in STEM-M opportunities
• Demonstrated interest in science and math
• Must be able to attend the entire 6-week program (Monday, June 30, 2025 – Thursday, August 7, 2025)
• Must be fully COVID-vaccinated or willing to be fully vaccinated by the second summer

Students with strong critical thinking skills and innate curiosity are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants must submit a transcript and letter of recommendation that demonstrates academic success and consistent attendance and punctuality. For funding purposes, priority will be given to applicants from West Philadelphia and from schools with a historical partnership with CHOP-RISES. Ineligible applications will not be reviewed.

Unfortunately, no. While CHOP-RISES exposes students to a wide range of careers in healthcare, the program is designed for students who are interested and enthusiastic to participate in a research intensive internship.