A program for students who are excited by discovery, driven by curiosity and eager to contribute to real-world genetics and genomics research.
A program for students who are excited by discovery, driven by curiosity and eager to contribute to real-world genetics and genomics research.
The JAX Summer Student Program (SSP) is designed for intellectually curious undergraduate and graduating high school seniors eager to explore how genetics and genomics shape biological systems — and who want to grow as independent researchers in a collaborative environment. The program emphasizes laboratory discovery, scientific communication and personal growth in a team environment.
With guidance from experienced scientific mentors, you will join ongoing research programs to implement a project related to the work of the lab, gaining increasing independence as the fellowship progresses. At the end of the summer, you will present your work to JAX researchers, other SSP participants and family members.
Throughout the 10 weeks, you'll build essential skills through training and professional development sessions covering topics like genetic testing, data visualization, science communication and peer review. Weekly Journal Club meetings and informal conversations with JAX scientists and professionals — including grant writers, scientific services experts, attorneys, veterinarians, and external relations specialists — offer a deeper look into the many career paths shaped by science
The Summer Student Program is available at The Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine and The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine in Farmington, Connecticut. Outside the laboratory, there is much to explore. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with each location's surrounding activities and amenities by reviewing the campus pages.
The Summer Student Program brings together students from all over the United States with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. The SSP living-learning community encourages students to imagine their role in a future research career. Their scientific growth is fostered through conversations and collaborations with JAX faculty, trainees and staff. Students also engage in co-curricular training in scientific communication, professional development and the responsible conduct of research.
If the JAX Summer Student Program seems like a good fit for you, please visit the Admissions page for details about eligibility and how to apply.
Early November 2025
January 26, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. ET
$7,000, plus room, board and travel
May 30 – August 7, 2026 (10 weeks)
Bar Harbor, Maine & Farmington, Conn.
