About

The UC Global Health Institute’s Summer Researchers in Global Health (SRGH) is a six-week, paid summer internship for rising high school seniors that introduces foundational concepts and real-world practice in global health research. Organized by the UC Global Health Institute (UCGHI) in partnership with multiple University of California campuses, the program immerses interns in projects addressing health equity, emerging infectious diseases, and planetary health. Participants work under the mentorship of faculty and research professionals at UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UC Merced, UC Santa Cruz, or UCSF.

The 2026 session runs from June 8 to July 17, 2026, and culminates in a mandatory Final Showcase and Graduation on July 16 at UCSF’s Byers Auditorium. Interns commit roughly 30 hours per week in a hybrid model that combines virtual work with on-site engagement. The curriculum covers a wide array of multidisciplinary topics, including HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, and reproductive health. Weekly case discussions led by graduate student instructors provide a collaborative learning environment for the cohort.

Eligibility for SRGH is restricted to rising high school seniors who reside in Northern California within approximately one hour of a participating UC campus. Participants are matched with projects based on interest and location. All interns receive a $2,000 stipend upon completion of the program. Admission is competitive and requires an online application, a resume, a personal statement, and a letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor.

The application period for the 2026 cycle closes on April 20, 2026, with decisions released by early May. While logistical details vary by host site, SRGH’s core mission remains to broaden access to global health education and to nurture early enthusiasm for careers focused on improving health outcomes locally and globally.