USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center
An NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center
NextGen Cancer Scholars: ACS Cancer Research Fellows Program
Open to current seniors or recent graduates (within one year) with a bachelor’s degree in any STEM field who intend to pursue a doctoral degree in any STEM discipline or health profession.
This program provides research opportunities and career development for undergraduate students from backgrounds from communities historically not represented in biomedical research, per NIH definition.
About the NextGen Cancer Scholars: ACS Cancer Research Fellows Program:
Sponsored by the American Cancer Society, the NextGen Cancer Scholars: ACS Cancer Research Fellows Program is a two-year, full-time, paid fellowship designed to prepare recent college graduates – particularly those from communities historically not represented – for doctoral training in cancer research and health-related professions.
The USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center has received funding to support four fellows, each receiving a $50,000 annual stipend ($100,000 total for two years).
Components of our program include:
Mentored Research Experience
Fellows will be matched with a faculty mentor and research team in cancer biology, population science, clinical research, or other related disciplines. Under close mentorship, fellows will:
- Design and conduct an original, hypothesis-driven cancer research project
- Gain hands-on laboratory or data analysis experience using modern techniques and tools
- Develop and submit a research proposal with iterative mentor feedback
- Prepare written reports (preliminary, mid-point, and final), a draft manuscript, and a final manuscript suitable for publication
- Present findings at internal seminars and national conferences
- Build skills in critical thinking, scientific writing, data interpretation, and presentation
Fellows are expected to dedicate 90–95% of their time (35–38 hours/week) to their research activities, with limited time allocated to coursework and professional development.
Professional Development Opportunities
Participation in training designed to enhance fellows’ readiness and competitiveness for doctoral degree programs, including sessions on applying to graduate school, crafting compelling applications, and securing funding.
Graduate-Level Learning
Participation in seminars and coursework where fellows engage with cutting-edge cancer research topics and methodologies.
Networking and Collaboration
Opportunities to build professional connections with peers, mentors, and role models in the cancer research community, fostering long-term relationships and collaborations.
- Applicants must identify as members of racial or ethnic groups from communities historically not represented in biomedical research, as defined by NIH.
- Educational Background: Applicants must be a current senior or a recent graduate (within one year) with a bachelor’s degree in any STEM field.
- GPA Requirement: A minimum of 3.0 cumulative GPA in the final academic year is required.
- Career Goals: Applicants must intend to pursue a doctoral degree in any STEM (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics) discipline or health profession
- Program Exclusivity: Applicants must commit to participating full-time in the fellowship program. You are allowed to take up to two courses per semester.
Step 1: Submit your Statement of Interest. To be considered for the 2026 – 2028 cohort, the deadline to submit your application is Friday, May 29 2026.
Step 2: If selected by the Committee, you will be informed and matched with a mentor.
Q: How do I find a faculty mentor?
First Step: The USC NCCC Review Committee will match you with a mentor.
Q: When is the application deadline?
Statement of Interest: Due by Friday, May 29 2026.
Q: How long is the program?
The program is 2 years long, beginning in September 2026.
Q: How much is the stipend?
Interns will receive a $50,000 stipend per year.
Inspiring Journeys: Our Fellows
2025 – 2027 Cohort
Benjamin Alonzo
Benjamin Alonzo’s research will focus on Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and Cancer Epidemiology. He wants to further expand his data analysis knowledge and his wet lab skills, as well as gain a better understanding of what it means to be a researcher.
Steve Soto
Steve Soto’s research will center on colorectal cancer (CRC). Throughout the program, he seeks to gain a clear understanding of CRC and its physiological progression. He hopes his work contributes to spreading awareness towards the growing incidence of CRC in young men and its disproportionate impact on minority communities in the surrounding Los Angeles area.