15 Summer Biology Internships for Undergraduates in 2026
Internships can be a turning point in your undergraduate journey, giving you the chance to apply what you’ve learned in class to real-world challenges. Instead of only studying biological concepts, you will actively engage with them by working in a lab, analyzing datasets, or contributing to ongoing research. These experiences help you build practical skills, understand how the field operates outside academia, and develop clarity about your long-term interests. Internships also allow you to connect with researchers and professionals who can shape your academic and career decisions.
If you’re interested in summer internships in specific subjects, check out a list of psychology summer internships here & law internships here.
Why should I do a Summer Biology internship in college?
A summer biology internship will give you insight into how biological research and applications actually work in practice. You will learn how to design experiments, handle real data, and use tools that are standard in labs and research institutions – experiences that coursework alone rarely provides. This kind of exposure can help you decide whether you want to pursue research, healthcare, biotechnology, or another related path. Completing undergraduate biology internships, summer 2026 will also make a noticeable difference when you apply for jobs or graduate programs. Recruiters and admissions committees tend to prioritize candidates who have demonstrated initiative and hands-on experience in their field.
This list focuses on 15 of the most rigorous and well-regarded undergraduate biology internships for the summer of 2026, selected for their academic quality, hands-on learning opportunities, and strong mentorship networks.
Quick Look
15 internships total spanning biomedical, neuroscience, genomics, biotech, and marine science research, hosted at institutions including Johns Hopkins, MIT, NIH, Caltech, and several international labs in Japan, Switzerland, and the UK
The strongest disclosed stipends are Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory ($7,000), Caltech's Amgen Scholars Program ($6,000 plus a $610 dining card), and the Broad Institute ($5,400), all with housing and travel also provided
Several international programs require covering your own travel and living costs, including RIKEN (financial support available) and the Sainsbury Laboratory, while EPFL and most U.S.-based programs provide a stipend or full funding
Most programs target sophomores and juniors at U.S. institutions with a minimum GPA between 3.2 and 3.75; international and DACA students are explicitly eligible at MIT, Caltech, and the NIH
The earliest deadlines are the Broad Institute (January 11) and Cold Spring Harbor (January 15), so students interested in these should begin preparing materials by December
1. Johns Hopkins Summer Internship Program
Location: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
Cost/Stipend: $3,000 – $5,750; housing provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: May 24 – August 1
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in early February
Eligibility: Current undergraduate students enrolled at U.S. colleges; full-time commitment required
The Johns Hopkins Summer Internship Program provides an immersive experience in biomedical and public health research. Over the course of the program, you will work on an independent lab project under the guidance of faculty or research mentors, gaining exposure to research methodology, experimental design, and scientific analysis. The experience is structured to mirror a first-year graduate lab rotation, meaning you will engage deeply with scientific literature, lab meetings, and ongoing research discussions. You will also receive training in relevant lab techniques and contribute to your research team’s broader goals. At the end of the internship, you will present your findings in either an oral or poster format, with opportunities to further showcase your work at national conferences. Additionally, you will participate in professional development sessions and networking events, allowing you to connect with researchers and peers in the field.
2. Ladder University Internship Program
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Depends on the program
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Multiple 8-12 week cohorts throughout the year, including Summer
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines for cohorts throughout the year: Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November)
Eligibility: Undergraduate students worldwide
The Ladder University Internship Program gives you the opportunity to work remotely with startups and nonprofits across a range of industries, including those connected to healthcare, biotechnology, and life sciences. During the internship, you will contribute to a real-world project that addresses an actual need within the organization, allowing you to apply concepts such as data analysis, research methodology, or scientific communication in a practical context. You will collaborate closely with a manager or mentor, gaining insight into professional workflows and expectations. The program emphasizes project-based learning, culminating in a final presentation where you will showcase your work and findings. This structure allows you to build both technical and transferable skills, even in a virtual environment. The global and interdisciplinary nature of the program also exposes you to diverse perspectives and problem-solving approaches.
3. Riken Center for Brain Science Summer Program
Location: RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, Japan
Cost/Stipend: None; you must pay for travel, accommodation, meals, visa, etc; financial support available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Internship: June 9 – August 7 | Lecture Course: July 22 – 28
Application Deadline: Typically early Spring
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate-level applicants; full on-site participation required; must be enrolled in an academic institution during the program
The summer program at the RIKEN Center for Brain Science allows you to explore neuroscience through either a two-month laboratory internship or a shorter lecture-based course. In the internship track, you will join a research lab and contribute to ongoing projects, gaining experience in experimental techniques and research methodology used in neuroscience and related biological fields. Alongside this, you may attend an intensive lecture series covering topics such as genetics, neural networks, and brain development. The program also includes poster sessions and a final presentation, where you can share your work and engage with an international community of researchers and peers.
4. Summer Undergraduate Research Program – University of Toronto Institute of Medical Science
Location: University of Toronto, Toronto, ON
Cost/Stipend: Depends on the project; typically funded
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: June – August
Application Deadline: Typically early spring
Eligibility: Undergraduate students; background in science or related coursework is recommended
The Summer Undergraduate Research Program at the University of Toronto enables you to work on a biomedical research project in either a laboratory or clinical setting. Research areas span fields such as molecular biology, cognitive science, clinical investigation, and bioethics, allowing you to explore different directions within the life sciences. Over the course of the program, you will take part in lab meetings, data analysis, and journal discussions while working closely with faculty mentors. Weekly seminars led by researchers will provide additional academic context and exposure to current developments in the field. The program will conclude with a Research Day, where you will present your findings through an oral or poster presentation and engage with peers and faculty.
5. EPFL School of Life Sciences Summer Research Program
Location: EPFL School of Life Sciences, Lausanne, Switzerland
Cost/Stipend: CHF 3,600 stipend (covers housing and living expenses; travel partially reimbursed)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 20-25 participants/cohort; highly selective
Dates: July 3 – August 27
Application Deadline: November 15 annually
Eligibility: Undergraduate and early master’s students in life sciences; minimum GPA equivalent to 3.75/4.0; at least two years of undergraduate study completed
The Summer Research Program at the EPFL School of Life Sciences will place you in an active research group, where you will contribute to ongoing projects in areas such as molecular biology, bioinformatics, and quantitative biology. Over eight weeks, you will gain hands-on experience with lab techniques while developing skills in experimental design and data analysis. The program also incorporates scientific seminars and workshops focused on both research and professional development. You will present your work at a closing symposium through a poster or presentation, alongside peers from around the world. In addition to lab work, the program includes a structured schedule of social and academic activities, offering a more immersive experience within the broader scientific community.
6. Sainsbury Laboratory Undergraduate Summer Research Projects
Location: Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge, UK
Cost/Stipend: Travel and living expenses are supported
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; 3 students/research group
Dates: June – August (flexible start dates)
Application Deadline: January 15 – March 31
Eligibility: Undergraduate students in science disciplines; must not be in their final year; a strong academic record and interest in research are required
The Undergraduate Summer Research Projects at the Sainsbury Laboratory place you within a research group working at the intersection of plant biology, genetics, and computational modelling. Over the summer, your work centers on an independent project, with responsibilities such as planning experiments, analyzing data, and interpreting results within a broader research context. Regular lab meetings, seminars, and discussions form part of the experience, offering insight into how collaborative research environments operate. Guidance is provided by PhD researchers and postdoctoral mentors, while still allowing room for independent thinking and problem-solving. The program concludes with a poster presentation, where you will share your findings with the wider research community.
7. Broad Institute’s Summer Research Program
Location: Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA
Cost/Stipend: $5,400 stipend; free housing and travel within the U.S. provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: June 1 – July 31
Application Deadline: January 11
Eligibility: Undergraduates in U.S. institutions graduating in December or later; minimum GPA 3.2; must be authorized to work in the U.S.
The Broad Summer Research Program at the Broad Institute places you in a research lab working on projects related to genomics, computational biology, cancer, or infectious disease. Over nine weeks, your work will involve either experimental or computational research, with opportunities to build skills in data analysis, coding, and research methodology, depending on your project. Alongside lab work, the program includes a structured curriculum with seminars, workshops, and a scientific communication course led by researchers from Harvard University and MIT. The experience concludes with oral and poster presentations, where you will present your findings to peers and mentors. Additional programming focuses on graduate school preparation and collaborative problem-solving, making this a well-rounded option among undergraduate biology internships, summer 2026.
8. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Undergraduate Research Program
Location: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY
Cost/Stipend: $7,000 stipend; housing and meals provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; 20 students
Dates: June 8 – August 8
Application Deadline: January 15
Eligibility: Undergraduate students (typically sophomores and juniors); must be enrolled at a U.S. institution or affiliated partner; strong science background recommended
The Undergraduate Research Program at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory places you in a lab working on an original project in areas such as molecular biology, genomics, neuroscience, or quantitative biology. The experience centers on hands-on research, with time spent developing experimental techniques, analyzing data, and engaging with the broader scientific literature. Workshops and seminars, including training in programming, scientific communication, and responsible research practices, complement lab work. Throughout the program, you’ll prepare a research abstract, write a scientific report, and deliver presentations, culminating in a final symposium. There will be close interaction with scientists and access to advanced research facilities that will provide a realistic view of life in a research institute.
9. California Institute of Technology Amgen Scholars Program
Location: California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA
Cost/Stipend: $6,000 stipend + $610 dining card; housing and travel provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: June 15 – August 21
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Sophomores, juniors, or non-graduating seniors at U.S. institutions; minimum GPA 3.2; U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or DACA recipients
The Amgen Scholars Program at California Institute of Technology places you in a research lab working on projects across biology, chemistry, and biotechnology-related fields. Over ten weeks, the experience centers on contributing to ongoing research while developing skills in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific inquiry. The program also includes seminars, writing workshops, and professional development sessions focused on research careers and graduate study. Beyond lab work, the schedule incorporates faculty-led talks, networking events, and a mid-summer conference, offering broader exposure to the scientific community. The program concludes with a final presentation and written report, allowing you to communicate your research in a formal setting.
10. Harvard Medical School BCMP Summer Undergraduate Research Program
Location: Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
Cost/Stipend: Stipend amount not specified
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: June 1 – August 7; 10 weeks
Application Deadline: November – March
Eligibility: Currently enrolled undergraduate students; authorization to work in the U.S. required (exceptional international applicants may be considered with prior approval); background in life sciences or related fields recommended
The BCMP Summer Undergraduate Research Program at Harvard Medical School integrates laboratory and computational research across areas such as molecular biology, cancer pathways, and drug discovery. Your work in participating labs spans techniques including genomics, biochemistry, cryo-electron microscopy, and bioinformatics, depending on the project. Over ten weeks, research is paired with seminars and professional development sessions focused on current scientific advances and pathways to graduate study. Writing workshops, faculty interactions, and collaborative events are built into the program, with research conducted across affiliated institutions such as Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Children's Hospital. The experience concludes with a formal presentation of research findings in a seminar setting.
11. MIT Summer Research Program
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Cost/Stipend: Typically funded
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: June 8 – August 8
Application Deadline: September 26 – January 20
Eligibility: Sophomores, juniors, or non-graduating seniors at U.S. institutions (excluding MIT); minimum GPA 3.5; full-time enrollment required; intent to pursue graduate study; U.S. citizens, permanent residents, DACA recipients, or international students with valid work authorization
The Summer Research Program at Massachusetts Institute of Technology combines lab-based research with structured preparation for graduate study across fields including biology, biotechnology, and related disciplines. The experience involves contributing to a research project under faculty guidance while building skills in scientific writing, data analysis, and research communication. Alongside lab work, weekly seminars and workshops focus on academic development, graduate school applications, and career pathways in research. Program components include drafting a research paper, preparing a statement of purpose, and presenting findings through a final poster session. Social events and cohort-based activities also form part of the experience, giving you opportunities to engage with peers and the broader academic community.
12. NIH Summer Internship Program
Location: National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD and other NIH campuses
Cost/Stipend: Stipend provided, varies by education level
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: May 11 – August 31
Application Deadline: Typically October – February
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents; at least 18 years old by September 30; enrolled at least half-time in an undergraduate, graduate, or professional program; full-time commitment required
The Summer Internship Program at the National Institutes of Health offers full-time research placements across biomedical, behavioral, and public health sciences. The experience is built around working in a research group led by a Principal Investigator, with projects spanning areas such as molecular biology, epidemiology, bioinformatics, and clinical research. Day-to-day work involves contributing to ongoing studies while developing skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. In addition to lab work, the program includes seminars, career development sessions, and events such as a graduate school fair and a final poster presentation. The decentralized structure means each research group operates independently, giving you exposure to different research environments across NIH campuses.
13. UC Berkeley QB3 Undergraduate Biotech Internship Program
Location: UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, and partner biotech companies
Cost/Stipend: Salary determined by host company
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: May/June – August; 10 weeks
Application Deadline: December 12 – February 3
Eligibility: C Berkeley undergraduate students (sophomores or juniors); minimum GPA 3.2; prior coursework in biology/chemistry with lab experience; U.S. work authorization required; must return to UC Berkeley in the fall
The QB3 Undergraduate Biotech Internship Program at the University of California, Berkeley, connects you with biotech companies for a full-time, industry-based research experience. Internships take place at partner companies, where students work on projects related to biotechnology, molecular biology, and applied life sciences. The work focuses on long-term research assignments, offering exposure to lab techniques, product development, and real-world applications of biological research. The structure differs from traditional academic programs, as the internship is embedded within a company environment with supervision from industry professionals. Alongside technical work, the experience includes networking opportunities and skill development in areas such as communication and project management. This industry-focused format provides a practical perspective on how biological research translates into commercial and clinical applications.
14. Dauphin Island Sea Lab Summer Environmental Education Internship
Location: Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Dauphin Island, AL
Cost/Stipend: $4,000 stipend + $500 travel allowance; housing and meals provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; 2~ positions
Dates: May 27 – July 31
Application Deadline: Typically early Spring
Eligibility: Undergraduate juniors or seniors, or recent graduates; interest in environmental education or marine science; full-time participation required
The Summer Environmental Education Internship at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab focuses on marine science and outreach, with work centered around teaching, field activities, and program coordination. The experience involves assisting with summer camps, workshops, and residential programs, while building familiarity with coastal ecosystems and environmental education practices. Your daily responsibilities may include supporting instruction, preparing materials, and helping manage logistics for hands-on learning sessions. Exposure to field techniques, data collection, and public engagement provides you with a broader understanding of how marine science connects with education and community outreach. The program also offers opportunities to collaborate with faculty and peers while gaining insight into careers in environmental science.
15. European Molecular Biology Laboratory Undergraduate Research Internship
Location: European Molecular Biology Laboratory, multiple locations in Europe
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Typically in summer; exact dates vary by project
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Undergraduate students enrolled in life sciences or related fields; must be registered at a university; thesis-based or independent internships considered
The undergraduate research internship at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory provides the opportunity to work on research projects across areas such as molecular biology, genomics, and structural biology. Projects are carried out within EMBL’s laboratories across multiple European locations, with work integrated into ongoing research led by scientific teams. The experience typically aligns with a thesis project, though independent internships are also considered. Research is supported by access to advanced facilities and exposure to an international scientific environment, where you will join a diverse community of researchers and students. The program provides you with valuable insight into collaborative research at a leading life sciences institute while contributing to active projects.
Questions Students Often Ask About These Programs
1. A few of these stipends aren't disclosed, like Harvard's BCMP program and the EMBL internship. How do I find out what I'd actually be paid?
For programs that don't list a specific number, the best approach is to reach out directly to the program coordinator or check with current or past interns on LinkedIn, since funding can vary by lab, project, or even by year. Programs like Harvard BCMP do confirm a stipend exists, just without a public figure, so it's worth asking before assuming it's unpaid. If a guaranteed amount matters to you upfront, programs like Cold Spring Harbor ($7,000) and Caltech's Amgen Scholars Program ($6,000) are more transparent and easier to plan around financially.
2. Several programs, like RIKEN, EPFL, and the Sainsbury Laboratory, are based outside the U.S. Do I need to be an international student to apply, or are these open to U.S. undergraduates too?
These programs are generally open to undergraduates regardless of nationality, as long as you're enrolled at a college or university and meet the academic requirements. RIKEN and the Sainsbury Laboratory both note that travel and visa logistics are your responsibility (with some financial support available at RIKEN), so U.S. students applying to these should factor in the additional cost and planning involved in working abroad for the summer. If staying domestic is a priority, the U.S.-based programs on this list, like NIH, MIT, and Johns Hopkins, offer a similar caliber of research experience without the international travel logistics.
3. How should I decide between an academic research program, like NIH or Caltech, and an industry-based one, like UC Berkeley's QB3 Biotech Internship?
It depends on what kind of experience you're trying to build. Academic research programs like NIH, MIT, and Caltech are centered on faculty-led projects, scientific publishing, and graduate school preparation, which suits students considering a PhD or research career. UC Berkeley's QB3 program instead places you inside an actual biotech company, giving you exposure to product development, industry timelines, and how research translates into commercial or clinical applications, which is more useful if you're considering a career in industry rather than academia. If you're unsure which path fits you better, pairing one academic research internship with one industry-based internship across different summers can help clarify the distinction firsthand.