Healthcare Experience and Research in Oncology
HERO (Healthcare Experience and Research in Oncology) is a virtual, multi-institutional, synchronous program for high school students. Current freshmen, sophomores and juniors interested in STEMM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine) are encouraged to apply.
Program activities are designed to foster an interest in health-related careers, recognizing the unique challenges of rural Minnesotans. Programming is delivered in part through a partnership with eCLOSE Institute. HERO is funded by the American Cancer Society.
Program description:
The Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center is pleased to enroll up to 20 HERO applicants each year. Over the course of two weeks, students collaborate with peers from the Midwest on a genetics-based research project and a patient case study project to explore facets of cancer science and clinical care.
Students also participate in faculty lectures, panel discussions, and skill-building workshops to acquire knowledge and network for their next steps on biomedical career pathways.
Participating institutions
As part of a cohort, HERO participants enrolled through the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center will complete all program activities in collaboration with peers enrolled through:
Eligibility
- Full-time high school student status at the time of application (rising sophomore, junior or senior).
- Strong interest in a career in scientific research, biomedicine or another cancer-related field.
- Ability to commit to 4 hours per day over the full two-week program (Monday–Friday, July 20 to 31, 2026). Students must commit to the entire program. Absence requests will not be honored unless emergent.
- Resident of Minnesota.
Benefits
- Mentorship from researchers in the cancer science field.
- Network of faculty and peers across program sites.
- Targeted career development workshops with professionals in cancer research and care.
- Lab kits for the experiments related to the program.
- $500 taxable stipend.
Program dates
HERO is a two-week, part-time, virtual summer program held on weekdays, July 20 to 31, 2026.
Admission
Applications for Summer 2026 are due by April 24, 2026.
Apply online
Contact the Mayo Clinic HERO team at MCCCC-CRTEC@mayo.edu
