Northeastern SPHERE Program
Take the first step toward your future in research with the Summer Public Health Education and Research Experience (SPHERE) Program! Discover a world of possibilities in public health and health sciences with our transformative summer research experience. This program is designed to prepare undergraduates for the challenges and opportunities of graduate school and future research careers.
Why apply to our program?
Hands-on Research
Dive into real-world challenges with faculty and doctoral student mentors. Faculty mentor bios can be found here: SPHERE Mentors.
Weekly Workshops
Build your career toolkit with
sessions on communication, leadership, and responsible research practices.
Fun & Networking
Connect with peers and professionals during social mixers, faculty lunches, and group excursions into Boston.
Showcase Your Work
Present your findings at a poster session that celebrates your achievements!
Program Details
- Takes place May 28th to August 5th – one week of instruction followed by 8 weeks in research labs
- The program is held at the Northeastern University Boston Campus giving you the opportunity to study in the heart of Boston, a hub for education, innovation, and healthcare.
- A $6,000 stipend is provided plus food and travel expenses are covered.
- Skillsets the program teaches students include how to conduct research, analyze data, and communicate findings effectively.
- The goal of the program is to provide students with hands-on mentoring, professional development, and a vibrant academic community to help you gain the tools to excel in your field and make a difference.
Research Areas:
- Epidemiology
- Health Equity
- Addictive Behaviors
- Health Informatics
- Prevention Science
- Health Promotion
- HIV
Schedule at a Glance
May 28th – June 6th: Orientation and Didactic Sessions
- Kickstart your journey with intensive sessions led by experienced faculty, introducing you to the foundational principles of research.
June 9th – August 1st: Research Placements
- Work closely with faculty mentors and doctoral students on cutting-edge research projects.
- Explore labs specializing in health equity, epidemiology, health informatics, reproductive health, addictive behaviors and biostatistics.
- Develop valuable technical and analytical skills that will set you apart.
August 5th: Poster Presentation
- Showcase your summer’s work at a celebratory event where you’ll present your research to faculty, peers, and invited guests.
Eligibility Criteria
- Passionate about research and ready to commit full-time, in-person, Monday through Friday, for 9 weeks.
- Open to undergraduate students from all Institutions (rising Juniors preferred).
- Based in or willing to relocate to Boston for the summer.
- Legally employable in the U.S. (citizens or work-eligible students)
- Must be at least 18 years old
Application requirements:
- Complete online application
- Resume
- Academic transcript
- One letter of recommendation
- Deadline: February 24th, 2025
Applicants will be notified of acceptance by March 10th, 2025.
Questions?
Contact Masumi Shah at shah.mas@northeastern.edu