About STEP-UP
The NIH Short-Term Research Experience Program to Unlock Potential (STEP-UP) aims to provide summer research opportunities for high school juniors and seniors from all backgrounds. Coordinated by the University of Utah’s College of Health, this program is funded by an R25 Educational Pathway Grant from the National Institutes of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Disorders (NIDDK). The STEP-UP Program offers hands-on biomedical research experiences and includes an eight-week summer program followed by a nine-month mentorship. Participants receive stipends for their work and are guided by experienced researchers. Visit the NIH STEP-UP Program page for more information.
Research Areas of Interest
The STEP-UP Program focuses on biomedical research in the various fields, including:
- Diabetes
- Endocrinology
- Nutrition
- Obesity
- Metabolism
- Related co-moridities
- Digestive, liver, urologic, kidney, and hematologic diseases
Partnering Institutions
The Program has secured agreements with over 20 research sites within Region C to support student placements.
Region C includes: Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota,
Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, and Kansas.
Program Goals
- Provide research opportunities to students from all backgrounds
- Enable students to conduct research in their home communities
- Expand professional networks and support career development
- Recruit potential students to the University of Utah and other partnering institutions
Eligibility
General Requirements
- Must be a U.S. Citizen, non-citizen national, or legal permanent resident
- Be 16 years of age or older
- Provide proof of personal/medical health insurance coverage (exceptions made for certain U.S. territories)
- Commit to completing the program
Academic Requirements
- Must be enrolled in a high school, or plan to be enrolled in the fall. High school students should be in their junior or senior year of high school during the application period.
Student Background
STEP-UP, as funded by the R25 Educational Pathway Grant from the NIDDK, encourages student applications from individuals from varied backgrounds, including underrepresented populations, individuals with disabilities, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Application Process and Registration Deadline
Application Steps:
- Complete the online application by February 15th
- Check your application status weekly through the Student Portal
- Notification of acceptance will begin on March 15th and continue until all spots are filled
- Accept the award within one week of notification by providing:
- Proof of existing medical insurance
- Copy of U.S. passport, birth certificate, or government-issued photo ID
Important Dates
Application Deadline: February 15th
Notification of Acceptance: Beginning March 15th
Contact Us
STEP-UP Application
Short-Term Research Experience Program to Unlock Potential (STEP-UP)