Diversity in Cancer Research Post-Baccalaureate Program

Unique training experience for post-baccalaureate students of underrepresented backgrounds

At IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, we’re devoted to making cancer research a welcoming and equitable environment for incoming scientists of all backgrounds. That’s why we’re proud to offer the IUSCCC American Cancer Society Post-Baccalaureate Diversity in Cancer Research Education Program (IADEP), a program for post-baccalaureate students of underrepresented background or disadvantaged populations who hope to pursue clinical or research careers in cancer.

IADEP is designed as a two-year cancer research experience for those who have recently been awarded their bachelor’s degree and who intends to pursue doctoral degrees in biomedical science, a health profession, or in population health/public health. The program prepares participants for competitive PhD and MD programs through “hands-on” research experiences and provides funding for living expenses throughout the two-year enrollment period. The program also provides professional development courses to assist fellows in developing their research skills, a personalized professional development plan geared toward successful admission to a competitive graduate or professional program, interview preparation, and training in skills needed to be successful in academic and professional life.

IADEP fellows will choose their mentors from among the cancer center membership, providing a unique opportunity to train directly within their fields of interest before ever entering a graduate program.

Examples of potential research fields include:

  • Cancer Prevention & Control
  • Experimental & Developmental Therapeutics
  • Hematopoiesis & Hematologic Malignancies
  • Tumor Microenvironment & Metastasis
  • Cancer Drug Discovery & Development
  • Immunotherapy, Global Oncology and Health Equity

Meet Current Students Learn more

Earn while you learn.

Fellows will be provided a competitive yearly salary of $37,565 in addition to health insurance, a housing stipend, travel funds to attend national scientific conferences, and other program benefits. Fellows also receive compensation for one prep course and one GRE test.

Applications for 2025 are now open.

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