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Participating in research can help you decide whether a PhD is right for you and, if you do apply, makes you a stronger applicant.

If you are looking for a short-term research experience, consider a paid summer internship organized by GSAS, Harvard departments, and Harvard-affiliated teaching hospitals. GSAS also offers a post-baccalaureate program, called the Research Scholar Initiative, which enables college graduates to take part in a long-term research experience. For a full list of programs that Harvard offers, please visit this site. 

Research Scholar Initiative (RSI)

In the GSAS Research Scholar Initiative post-baccalaureate program, research scholars work with a Harvard faculty member as a research assistant, participate in professional development seminars, and receive GRE preparation support. In addition, scholars may take undergraduate and/or graduate coursework in preparation for doctoral studies. While GSAS cannot guarantee admission to Harvard or peer doctoral programs, the goal of the initiative is to enhance scholars’ competitiveness when applying to a doctoral program.

Summer Reseach Opportunities (SROH) at Harvard 

The Summer Research Opportunities at Harvard (SROH) program connects undergraduates interested in a PhD with first-class researchers working in the life and physical sciences, humanities, and social sciences. This program is offered through GSAS and the Leadership Alliance.

During this 10-week program, SROH interns conduct research and participate in discussions with Cambridge-based Harvard faculty, build their presentation and research discussion skills, and take part in field trips with other Harvard summer programs. Students in the program live in Harvard housing and enjoy access to the outstanding resources of the university.

The program is funded by GSAS, Harvard Molecules, Cells, and Organisms, Harvard Evolution, Ecology, and Environment, and the Leadership Alliance. 

Summer Honors Undergraduate Research Program (SHURP) at Harvard Medical School

Summer Honors Undergraduate Research Program (SHURP) is a 10-week summer research program primarily for college students belonging to groups that are underrepresented in the sciences. In addition to laboratory-based research with Harvard Medical School faculty, the program includes research and career development seminars and a peer mentoring program. Stipend, housing, and travel are provided. Administered by the Division of Medical Sciences (PhD programs office) at Harvard Medical School every year since 1991, SHURP is offered for currently enrolled undergraduates who are considering careers in biological or biomedical research sciences, who have already had at least one summer (or equivalent term-time) of experience in a research laboratory, and who have taken at least one upper-level biology course that includes molecular biology. U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is required.