Harvard Kidney Research Program
The Harvard Summer Research Program in Kidney Medicine (HSRPKM) offers a robust and varied introduction to the world of kidney medicine (nephrology) for undergraduate college students considering a career in science or medicine and particularly suited for students who are interested in pursuing a PhD or MD PhD. The program is an intensive research experience and students are encouraged to become immersed in their project by reading about the focus of the laboratory and participating in meetings and events hosted by the laboratory. Students will be assigned to a laboratory that does research in kidney medicine in one of four research institutions connected to Harvard Medical School: Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), Boston’s Children’s Hospital (BCH) and Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH).
The program also includes a core curriculum that addresses the basic science and clinical fundamentals of kidney physiology and pathophysiology as well as challenges in the field. In addition, the program features several opportunities put these lessons into action. Students will shadow a nephrologist in clinic and will visit a dialysis unit. Finally, students will learn how to participate in a screening for kidney disease in the community.
Eligibility Requirements:
- GPA 3.4 or higher preferred
- Wet lab research experience preferred
- Currently enrolled in undergraduate degree seeking program
- Must be a US citizen or Permanent Resident (Green Card holder)
- Must be committed to entire 8+ week program (June 8th, 2026-August 5th, 2026)
**estimated dates, may be subject to change
Program Specifics:
- Eight-week program (June 8th, 2026 – August 5th, 2026) **estimated dates, may be subject to change
- 2 months of paid housing and stipend
- Work with world class investigators at Harvard Medical School
- Experience how kidney disease affects lives through a unique clinical experience
- Attend weekly core curriculum session which will introduce the functions and dysfunctions of the kidney
- All-expense paid trip to a national symposium to present your research
- Click here for a sample curriculum
The Harvard Summer Research Program in Kidney Medicine is funded by a grant from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). The program is led by Dr. Joseph Bonventre, Chief of Division of Nephrology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
The Program Director is Dr. Li-Li Hsiao. Dr. Li-Li Hsiao is a nephrologist at BWH and the founder of a national program for undergraduate students to serve the community by screening for chronic kidney diseases, Kidney Disease Screening and Awareness Program, KDSAP: http://www.kdsap.org.
The 2026 program is estimated to begin June 8th 2026 – August 5th 2026. Your application and all supporting documentation must be received by Friday January 9th, 2026. Click here to apply.
Please email HSRPKM@PARTNERS.ORG with any questions.