The field of regenerative medicine is multidisciplinary by necessity and requires the coordinated expertise of biologists, chemists, physiologists, engineers, and physicians. Traditionally, these areas of science have been disparate, and those who work in these fields speak different technical languages. Bringing these groups together is a formidable task, but is absolutely essential.

The goal of the Summer Scholars Program is to help prepare the next generation of scientists and clinicians to work effectively in a multidisciplinary research environment that is driven by clinical needs. The program provides a competitive stipend to undergraduate science and engineering students.

Areas of focus for WFIRM projects include biomaterials, cell and molecular biology, physiology, biomedical engineering, controlled release systems, biochemistry, cell and gene therapy, and tissue engineering. Participation on multidisciplinary teams provides a network of interactions directed at addressing real-world clinical challenges.

Dates and Deadlines

The summer program for 2009 runs from Monday, June 8 – Friday, August 14. For full consideration for participation in the 2009 program, applications and all supporting documents must be post-marked no later than Monday, March 2, 2009. Decisions on applications are expected by mid-March, 2009.

Summer Student Requirements 

• Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher (4.0 scale) 
• Be a citizen or a permanent resident of the U.S. 
• Be enrolled in a degree-granting program at a college or university in the United States, Puerto Rico, or other U.S. territory 
• Have completed at least 2 semesters of undergraduate education 
• Have at least one semester of undergraduate education remaining after completing the program 
• Have a strong interest in pursuing a PhD and/or MD

Application Procedure

To apply to the WFIRM Summer Scholars Program, print the Summer Scholar Application and follow the instructions. In addition to a completed application, a copy of academic transcripts and 2 letters of recommendations, preferably from those who can comment on your academic and/or research experience are required. The deadline for applications and all supporting documents is Monday, March 2, 2009.

Applications should be sent to:

Justin Saul, PhD
Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine
Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Medical Center Boulevard,
Winston-Salem, NC 27157-7290

Final selections should be made by mid-March. If the applicant anticipates being away from their school on spring break during the first 2 weeks of March, it is recommended that they continue to check their e-mail or to provide alternate contact information.