Markey STRONG Post-baccalaureate Fellows Program

The Markey Science Training in Research, Oncology, Networking, and professional Growth (STRONG) Post-baccalaureate Fellows Program seeks to create personalized mentored research opportunities for underrepresented post-baccalaureates who majored in STEM-H disciplines. The program is designed as a two-year cancer research experience for individuals who intend to pursue a doctoral degree in biomedical science, a health profession, or in population health/public health. 

The Markey STRONG Post-baccalaureate Fellows Program is designed to advance the fellow’s knowledge, critical thinking skills, technical skills in experimentation, responsible/ethical conduct of research, and networking abilities to advance their career by bolstering their competitiveness for professional graduate programs.

Fellowship Candidates

Applicants will be holistically judged on their entire application. Application components include a personal essay describing their aptitude for science, goals for professional careers, needs that can be addressed through post-baccalaureate training as well as a diversity statement, academic transcripts, and letters of support.

With support from the American Cancer Society Diversity in Cancer Research, four fellowship positions will be offered at $35,000 per year for two years plus fringe benefits that include medical insurance. Fellows will also have funds for travel to scientific conferences, research supplies, and tuition if classes are needed.

Curriculum

Markey STRONG Post-baccalaureate Fellow Curriculum 

  • Orientation
  • Research Experiences (continuous)
  • Didactic and Interactive Learning (monthly)
  • Roundtable Discussions (monthly)
  • Oncology Specialties Shadowing (regularly)
  • Science Communication
  • Personalized Experiences and Resources based on Fellow’s Career Goals

Contact

Additional questions regarding Markey STRONG Post-baccalaureate Fellows Program can be addressed to Ted Strohmeier (program coordinator) or Dr. Kathleen O'Connor (program director).

Apply

Markey STRONG Post-Baccalaureate
Fellows Program Application

Follow the link below to apply for the fellows program.
Applications are due by April 10, 2023.
Apply

Application materials must include:

A personal essay (under 1500 words) explaining each of the following:

  • What interests you in science or about science?
  • Why do you want to study cancer?
  • What is your career goal and what drives this aspiration?
  • Tell us how specific academic experiences in and outside of your undergraduate education that have prepared you for a career in STEM-H.
  • How do you like to spend your free time and energy?

Most recent official college transcript.

At least two letters of recommendation, preferably from STEM-H faculty members or mentors that can speak to your scientific potential (one page suggested; letters should be sent directly to Dr. Erin Oakley.)

Other supporting documents (CVs/Resumes, certificates/awards, other related documents) if desired.  

NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center - A Cancer Center Designated by the National Cancer Institute

Markey Cancer Center is designated by the National Cancer Institute as a Comprehensive Cancer Center – a distinction that recognizes our commitment to accelerating precision cancer research and care to patients. We are the first and only NCI-Comprehensive Cancer Center in Kentucky, and one of 57 in the nation.

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