NIH and ACS logos

The Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center has hosted a summer undergraduate cancer research program for nearly 20 years.  We are excited to continue this successful program in the summer of 2025. 

The Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center invites applications from interested undergraduates. Applications are open November 1, 2025 until February 1, 2026. 

Applicants must be undergraduates in biomedical sciences or a related degree field. Although a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is preferred, applicants with a GPA of 2.5-2.9 will be considered.  Those in a bachelor's degree program should be in their sophomore or junior year when applying.  For those in an associate's degree program, preference is given to those in their sophomore year or completing their degree when applying. Applicants can US Citizens/Permanent residents or be international students. In the case of an international student CROI leadership must discuss funding with the applicant's college. We encourage applications from populations who have been historically marginalized in science (NIH definition). 

These internships are designed to provide an outstanding atmosphere for training in medical research.  The mentors are faculty members of the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center and come from 17 departments and 5 colleges at the University of Iowa.

Summer student gives oral presentation

155 +

Program Alumni since 2006

2022 lab photo

95 %

Program alumni continue with science education and careers

2023 poster session

10

Weeks of instruction and research experience

Laura Hovenga

The CROI program helped me unearth my passion for research and shaped my career path in a way I never would have considered. The skills I developed and the professional network I built during this program assisted my success in both undergraduate and graduate research. These resources and the advising I received were paramount to my application and acceptance into a Molecular & Cellular Biology PhD program that same year. The CROI program was the connection I needed between my undergraduate education and graduate school. 

Laura Hovenga, BA Wartburg College 

University of Illinois Urbana

Eryka Appiah-Amaning

The CROI program was a truly transformative 10-week research experience. It not only deepened my understanding of cancer biology and refined my research skills but also provided invaluable exposure to leading physicians in the field of oncology. Beyond the lab, I formed lasting friendships and enjoyed exploring Iowa City. Overall, this experience reignited my passion for advancing medicine and reinforced my commitment to promoting diversity in science.

Eryka Appiah Amaning

Prairie View A&M University

Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center

Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center joins the ranks of the nation's premier cancer centers in our research mission to eliminate the burden of cancer.

For nearly every cancer type, the treatment received today shows the fruits of time-tested research. Our comprehensive approach to cancer assures that patient care will be among the most up-to-date treatments.

holden website

 

Graduate students discuss lab results

Graduate Education

Graduate students at University of Iowa will provide near peer mentorship to CROI interns.

Learn about graduate program opportunities

Iowa City word sculpture

Iowa City Community

Iowa City is a quintessential college town that combines a world-renowned educational and biomedical research institution with a welcoming and affordable community surrounded by the rolling hills, forests, and rivers of Eastern Iowa.

Events

Virtual Intuitive Eating Workshop for Students promotional image

Virtual Intuitive Eating Workshop for Students

Thursday, June 5, 2025 12:00pm to 1:30pm
Virtual
Intuitive Eating is an approach that teaches you how to create a healthy relationship with your food, mind, and body. It is based on 10 basic principles that invite you to a world of satisfying eating and a sense of freedom from dieting.The four-week workshop is free for students and will provide education, activities, practice, and support to improve your food and body image awareness.Register for the summer workshop starting Thursdays, June 5–26 from noon to 1:30 p.m.
National Learn to Row Day promotional image

National Learn to Row Day

Saturday, June 7, 2025 9:00am to 12:00pm
Beckwith Boathouse
National Learn to Row Day is June 7. Join us for a morning learn-to-row that will give you a quick glimpse into the sport of rowing. You will learn the rowing stroke on land and then move to boats on the water.All fitness and athletic backgrounds are welcome. Ages 18+. Items to wear and bring for participation: weather-appropriate apparel, hat, sunglasses, water bottle and sunscreen. Baggy clothing is discouraged as it may get caught in the equipment. Registration is required.Date: Saturday...
Intro to Mindfulness Workshop for Students promotional image

Intro to Mindfulness Workshop for Students

Tuesday, June 10, 2025 12:00pm to 1:15pm
Virtual
Intro to Mindfulness® is an evidence-based curriculum specifically designed for teaching mindfulness, meditation, and stress management to college students and other young adults. The workshop will run Tuesdays, June 3, 10, 17, 24 from Noon to 1:15 p.m. on Zoom. To register or learn more information, please go to the link on our website.