Summer Undergraduate Mentored Research Program (SUMR)

This summer internship introduces talented undergraduate students, with a demonstrated commitment in advancing the needs of underrepresented groups in health services, population health, and clinical epidemiology, to research in this field.

Since 2000, more than 350 undergraduate students have participated in SUMR and 85% have gone on to have careers in health care. We invite you to be part of this positive change, learn about our program, and contact us if you are interested in becoming a SUMR scholar.

Starting in 2022, SUMR has expanded the program to attract scholars who want to get experience in aging research. The Get Experience in Aging Research Undergraduate Program (GEAR UP) is a 15-month sustained fellowship program in the demography and economics of aging and health care for undergraduates from underrepresented backgrounds who are interested in a career in aging research. More information about the GEAR UP program can be found here: Get Experience in Aging Research Undergraduate Program (GEAR UP).

Despite tremendous advances in health care, minorities have higher rates of heart disease, many cancers, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS than white populations. It’s going to take more than medicine to change this fact. It will take health services researchers who understand the political, social, economic, and environmental realities that have created such deep disparities and inequities in health and health care. Different life experiences and perspectives result in richer ideas and findings more relevant to the country’s highly diverse population of patients.

Founded in 2000 by Penn LDI and the Wharton School’s Health Care Management Department, the program helps advance equity in the health care professions. Participating scholars work with Penn faculty on mentored research projects, attend the Academy Health Annual Research Meeting, and present on their projects at the End of SUMR Research Symposium.

The SUMR 2024 program will run for 12 weeks, beginning May 28, 2024 through August 16, 2024.

The GEAR UP 2024 program will run for 15 months concurrently with SUMR, beginning May 28, 2024 through August 15, 2025. Those who wish to apply for GEAR UP should complete a SUMR application and indicate in the application form your desire to be considered for GEAR UP.