Ready to try real research, grow your skills, and see if a career in cancer science or medicine is for you?
Supported by the American Cancer Society Center for Innovation in Cancer Research Training (ACS-CICRT) and led by Ruth Keri, PhD, education programs introduce individuals with limited exposure in the biomedical field to careers in cancer research and care by offering direct, hands-on experience under the guidance of established investigators.
An example is ACS-CanSUR. Each year, eight interns participate in longitudinal activities focused on cancer biology, detection, prevention, therapy, and survivorship to help reinforce their understanding of cancer research and career development. This includes conducting interviews with Cleveland community members and healthcare professionals to create short, educational videos.
- Watch the 2024 video: What Does a Scientist Look Like?
- Watch the 2023 video: Cancer Does Not Discriminate: Making Clinical Trials Accessible for All
Learn more about ACS-CICRT at the ACS Website and apply at the link at the end of the next page.
Case CCC, with the support of ACS, also offers opportunities at the high school and post-bacc levels. What you’ll get from all programs:
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Real lab experience guided by investigators tackling cancer from molecules to populations.
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A mentor and a team invested in your growth, plus near-peer support from current trainees.
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Skill-building in data analysis, scientific writing, presenting, and responsible research.
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Career exploration with panels, lab tours, and 1:1 advising on next steps (grad school, med school, industry).
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A professional network at a top NCI-designated center—people who can open doors.
High School Research Experience | YES Program
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Learn lab basics and safety, shadow experiments, and contribute to simple data collection.
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Build confidence presenting what you learned at a student showcase.
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Leave with a recommendation letter and a clearer sense of STEM majors to pursue.
You’ll benefit if: you love hands-on learning, want to see what a real research team looks like, and are building a standout college application.
Undergraduate Research Experience (CanSUR)
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Run experiments with supervision, join lab meetings, and present a research poster.
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Get coaching on personal statements, CVs, and interviewing.
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Map your next steps—research assistant roles, graduate programs, MD/PhD tracks, or industry internships.
You’ll benefit if: you’re ready to move from classroom labs to discovery, and you want concrete outputs (poster, talk, letter) for your applications.
Post-Baccalaureate Research Program
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Take ownership of a defined project, learn advanced methods, and co-author abstracts or manuscripts when possible.
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Receive tailored advising on PhD/MD applications, timelines, and funding strategies.
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Build a mentor network that can champion you into your next role.
You’ll benefit if: you want depth, responsibility, and evidence you’re ready for graduate or professional training.
Why Case CCC and ACS?
The ACS programs, under Dr. Keri's watch, are built to meet you where you are—and move you forward. We prioritize potential and promise, and provide the mentorship and structure to help you thrive.