Research Summer Scholars Program
Undergraduate students can make a real impact in pediatric research at the Children’s Mercy Research Institute (CMRI) this summer. This competitive program offers the opportunity to work with expert mentors, build core research skills, and present your findings at a capstone research event.
Why CMRI
Since 1994, Children’s Mercy has offered the Research Summer Scholars Program- an immersive, hands‑on research experience focused on advancing pediatric medicine. More than 200 undergraduate scholars have participated, contributing to meaningful projects and publishing their work in peer‑reviewed journals.
As a Summer Scholar at the CMRI, you’ll work alongside leading clinicians and scientists addressing some of the most pressing challenges in child health. With access to cutting‑edge technologies and a strong culture of mentorship, you’ll gain the skills, guidance, and professional network needed to grow as a researcher and make a meaningful impact.
At a Glance
Now accepting applications!
Application deadline: February 15, 2026
Who: Undergraduate students
Where: Children’s Mercy Research Institute - Kansas City, Missouri
When: June 1 – August 7, 2026, with the option to extend through August 21
Scholar Applications:
Apply Now
Applications for the 2026 Research Summer Scholar Program are open from Jan. 15 – Feb. 15, 2026.
Eligibility:
- Must be enrolled in undergraduate courses
- Must have a 3.0 GPA or higher
- Should be self-motivated with a strong interest in biomedical sciences
Program Schedule
Summer Scholars are hired as temporary full-time employees and are expected to work on-site for 40 hours per week. This allows scholars to become fully immersed in Children’s Mercy’s collaborative and innovative research environment.
In addition to their primary research project, scholars participate in weekly educational sessions and professional development workshops led by experts across the organization. Scholars are also encouraged to explore the many resources and opportunities available to Children’s Mercy employees.
Key Dates
| Scholar Applications Open | Jan. 15-Feb. 15, 2026 |
| Interviews and Matching | February-March, 2026 |
| First Day of Program | June 1, 2026 |
| Last Day of Program | Aug. 7 – 21, 2026 (flexible based on student availability) |
| Capstone Presentations and Luncheon | August 2026 - exact date TBD |
Scholar Research Projects
Each year, principal investigators (PIs) apply to join the program and mentor a Summer Scholar. PIs propose well-defined project with clear methods, timelines, and goals to guide the student’s experience.
As part of the application process, students will rank their top three projects. After interviews, PIs will also rank candidates, and a matching process will be used to determine final scholar selections and project assignments.
This year, PI interest was higher than ever. After a rigorous review and selection process, these 13 projects have been chosen for Summer 2026:
View participating divisions and projectsThe Kansas City Appeal
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Program Organizers:
Program Director, Research Summer Scholars Program
Molly Leyda
Program Manager, Research Summer Scholars Program
Why you should apply
As a summer scholar, you will be immersed in research and educational opportunities. In addition to the interactions of performing day-to-day research, scholars commonly participate in meetings and events hosted by their laboratory. Scholars will receive training in the techniques necessary to conduct their research activity. The projects have been specifically designed for summer students, allowing them to take on a sense of ownership of their work. This form of experiential training provides excellent preparation, relevant knowledge, and practical skills needed to pursue a career in research.
In addition to working on their respective projects, scholars participate various academic and social activities. This includes lunch-and-learn seminars, exposure to the institutional review board, biostatistics, and scientific writing. Additional activities provide opportunities for networking to build upon academic and professional networks. At the conclusion of the program, scholars showcase their research at a formal presentation for their peers and researchers across the institution.
FAQ
Typically, 5-12 scholars are accepted per year. The number fluctuates from year to year.
Students will be expected to work 40 hours per week. Mentors will decide specific hours. Due to the short length of the program, vacations are not encouraged. Students are advised to not make vacation plans until they discuss these with their mentors.
We try to prioritize student interest. During the interview process, candidates are asked to complete an interest form that ranks the potential available topics for the summer. Placement ultimately depends on the availability of mentors and the appropriateness of a lab for a summer intern; however, we almost always have Scholars placed within one of their top three options.
Scholars will receive a competitive, hourly salary. Overtime is not expected nor supported for this role. The program is budgeted for 40 hours a week and 80 hours per pay period.