A summer program to inspire high school girls to pursue careers in cancer research.
Official title: SHE (Summer Healthcare Experience) in Oncology
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-10887956 · Data updated 2026-11-12
The Summer Healthcare Experience (SHE) is a friendly online program for high school students, especially young women from diverse backgrounds, where they can learn about cancer research, get hands-on experience, explore careers, and connect with mentors to help inspire them to become future leaders in the fight against cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $268,734 |
| NIH project number | 1R25GM154352-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10887956 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this program are high school students, particularly young women from underrepresented backgrounds interested in STEM and cancer research.
✕Less likely to help
Students who are not interested in pursuing a career in STEM or cancer research may not benefit from this program.
What this research studies
The Summer Healthcare Experience (SHE) in Oncology is a virtual program designed for high school students, particularly focusing on increasing the participation of women from underrepresented backgrounds in the cancer biomedical workforce. Participants engage in hands-on research experiences, career exploration, mentorship, and leadership training, all delivered collaboratively across five leading cancer centers. This program not only provides valuable educational opportunities but also addresses social determinants of health and barriers to cancer care in diverse communities. By connecting students with a network of peers and mentors, SHE aims to foster a new generation of leaders in cancer research and care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly increase the representation of women from underrepresented backgrounds in the cancer biomedical workforce.
How similar studies have gone: Previous iterations of this program have shown success in engaging participants and fostering interest in cancer research careers.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mekinda, Megan — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Mekinda, Megan
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.