Medical students begin summer research
Posted on May 28, 2026 by Marketing and Communications
The 53rd Annual Medical Student Summer Research Program officially kicked off with
orientation on Wednesday, May 27, marking the start of a busy and exciting summer
of research at the Whiddon College of Medicine. This year, 69 students — 58 rising
M2s and 11 incoming M1s — are participating in the program.
The eight-week program pairs medical students with faculty mentors, and students devote 30 to 40 hours a week to a research project. The summer experience includes hands-on research related to basic science and/or clinical medicine, a seminar program that focuses on various scientific and clinical topics, and student presentations. Through the program, students develop an appreciation of how research contributes to the knowledge and practice of medicine.
The program will culminate with student presentations on the 53rd Annual Medical Student Summer Research Day, scheduled for Friday, July 24, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Medical Sciences Building.
Wito Richter, Ph.D., is the chair of the summer research program, and Skye Andrade is the program coordinator. Support for the program is provided by the Dean's Office.
Learn more about the Medical Student Summer Research Program.