About

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center’s Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP) is a competitive, eight-week, full-time paid research internship for high school students interested in biomedical science and cancer research. Hosted at Fred Hutch in Seattle, Washington, SHIP is specifically designed for rising seniors who have had limited prior research experience and come from backgrounds underrepresented in biomedical science.

The 2026 SHIP session runs from June 22 to August 14, 2026. The internship begins with two weeks of intensive training in laboratory safety and techniques, followed by six weeks embedded in a Fred Hutch research group. Interns contribute to real scientific projects, attend weekly professional development workshops, and participate in career panels. The program culminates in a formal research presentation where students share their work with the Fred Hutch community.

Eligibility is limited to students entering their senior year of high school who are at least 16 years old by the start of the program and reside in the Greater Seattle area. Admission is highly selective; the application—which requires a transcript, resume, and two references—must be submitted by March 13, 2026. Top candidates are typically invited for a Zoom interview. While the program is non-residential, SHIP provides a paid stipend (approximately $2,500) and a complimentary ORCA card to cover local transportation costs.

Because SHIP embeds students directly into active laboratories at a world-class cancer center, it offers an authentic preview of scientific careers. Participants gain practical skills and professional mentorship that help bridge the gap between high school science and academic research. For eligible students eager to explore or pursue biomedical careers and research , SHIP is one of the most ideal opportunities available.