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 must be US Citizens/Permanent residents.  We encourage applications from students who have not yet had the opportunity to participate in research other than class labs. 

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
Saya Geisendorfer

The CROI summer program taught me invaluable knowledge about working in the lab and about the field of cancer biology. Being able to take part in a program that prepares students for a plethora of careers related their future interests was very exciting and fulfilling. I am grateful that we had the privilege to be mentored by such professional and caring people, as it made me more confident that I am choosing to study in the right field.

Saya Geisendorfer

Grinnell College

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

Matthew Ahlers

CROI exposed me to the vast and fascinating field of immunology research. I enjoyed learning under the guidance of my mentor and near-peer, who helped guide my research plan and answered my countless scientific questions. The lectures and Scientific Retreat introduced me to a wide variety of ideas and medical research careers presented by distinguished Iowa researchers. Delivering my oral presentation helped me synthesize my findings and strengthen my public speaking skills. I am confident that my experience with CROI will greatly benefit my future endeavors!

Matthew Ahlers

Duke University

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, BS 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

Thrift or Treat  promotional image

Thrift or Treat

Tuesday, November 4, 2025 4:00pm to 7:00pm
Iowa Memorial Union (IMU)

You asked and we delivered! You guys enjoyed our Clothing Swap last year so much that we are bringing it back this semester with a spooky twist! Bring your old Halloween costumes, accessories, and more to swap out for something fun and scary for next year's Halloween costume!

This event will also have Everbowl serving 50 açaí bowls for the first 50 attendees. This is on a first-come, first-serve basis and while supplies last.

Registration of a student organization does not imply University of...

Intro to Mindfulness Workshop for Students promotional image

Intro to Mindfulness Workshop for Students

Tuesday, November 4, 2025 6:00pm to 7:15pm
Adler Journalism and Mass Communication Building
Sign up for a free, 4-week workshop to learn mindfulness meditation in community with other students
Intuitive Eating Workshop for Students promotional image

Intuitive Eating Workshop for Students

Tuesday, November 4, 2025 6:00pm to 7:30pm
Campus Recreation and Wellness Center

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 by visiting our website.