Summer 2026 Intern – Pediatric Oncology Translational Research Lab

Penn State University; Hershey (PA); Hybrid; USD 20,664,000 - 30,307,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State University is seeking a motivated Summer Intern to join the Pediatric Oncology Translational Research Labs in Hershey, PA. The role offers hands-on experience with basic lab techniques, drug testing, Western blotting, and cell viability assays, alongside shadowing in pediatric oncology clinics and case conferences.

The internship runs 6–8 weeks in Summer 2026, requiring full-time commitment. Candidates should be undergraduate students in biology-related fields with GPA 3.0+, strong

Qualifications

• Educational Background: Must be a current undergraduate student pursuing a degree in a relevant field (e.g., Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline).
• Completion of at least one year of coursework in biology or a related science field is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist lab personnel in performing experiments related to pediatric oncology research.
• Prepare and maintain laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Conduct basic laboratory techniques, including Western blots and cell viability assays, under supervision.
• Document experimental procedures, results, and data accurately.
• Collaborate with lab members to support ongoing research projects.
• Attend lab meetings, seminars, and workshops to expand your knowledge of pediatric oncology research.
• Present your research project at the end of your 8+ week internship.

Skills

Laboratory techniques

Western blotting

Cell viability assays

Documentation

Education

Undergraduate student in Biology/Biochemistry/Molecular Biology

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic Summer Intern to join our Penn State Pediatric Oncology Translational Research Labs. This internship offers an exceptional opportunity to gain hands on experience in a cutting edge research environment focused on pediatric cancer. As a Summer Intern, you will work closely with our research team to learn and apply basic laboratory techniques, such as drug testing, western blotting, and cell viability assays, while contributing to our ongoing research projects. You will additionally get hands on experience shadowing in pediatric oncology clinics, grand rounds, molecular tumor boards, surgical procedures, etc. based on area of interest and identified summer mentor.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist lab personnel in performing experiments related to pediatric oncology research.
• Prepare and maintain laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Conduct basic laboratory techniques, including Western blots and cell viability assays, under supervision.
• Document experimental procedures, results, and data accurately.
• Collaborate with lab members to support ongoing research projects.
• Attend lab meetings, seminars, and workshops to expand your knowledge of pediatric oncology research.
• Present your research project at the end of your 8+ week internship.

Requirements

Educational Background: Must be a current undergraduate student pursuing a degree in a relevant field (e.g., Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline). Completion of at least one year of coursework in biology or a related science field is preferred.

Basic Laboratory Skills: While no prior research experience is required, a strong interest in science and a willingness to learn and apply basic lab techniques are essential.

Enthusiasm and Teamwork: We are looking for individuals with a passion for pediatric oncology research, who can collaborate effectively with lab members and demonstrate a strong work ethic.

Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills are important for documenting procedures and presenting findings in lab meetings.

Time Commitment: Interns are expected to commit to a full-time schedule during a six to eight week course in the summer of 2026. The exact start and end dates can be discussed during the interview process.

Laboratory Safety: Willingness to adhere to laboratory safety protocols and guidelines is crucial.

Initiative: The ability to take the initiative, ask questions, and actively engage in research activities is highly valued.

GPA: A competitive academic record with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is preferred.

This internship provides a unique opportunity to gain practical laboratory skills, contribute to ongoing research, and explore the field of pediatric oncology. If you are a dedicated, aspiring scientist with a strong interest in pediatric cancer research, we encourage you to apply.

Interns will be expected to be in person May 2026 in Hershey, PA.

Background checks/Clearances This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.

Campus Security Crime Statistics Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines.

There’s a reason Penn State consistently ranks among the top one percent of the world’s universities. Across 24 campuses, our 100,000 students and 40,000 faculty and staff know the real measure of success goes beyond the classroom – it’s the positive impact made on communities across the world. Our ideals stem from our origins as Pennsylvania’s sole land-grant institution, which allow us to continue to bring positive impact to humanity through our teaching, research, and engagement mission. And across the world is a community of Penn Staters – more than half a million strong – driven by that same spirit to serve our local and global communities. At Penn State, passion is met with collaboration in an environment that is rooted in shared pride for the accomplishments of our fellow students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Penn Staters cheer each other on to build a culture committed to service and engagement. Our University values represent our core ethical aspirations for all our daily activities and actions as students, faculty, staff, and volunteers at Penn State. Our values are as follows; Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Discovery, Excellence, and Community. We Are Penn State. One Community. Impacting Many.