A Summer Research Enrichment Opportunity Sponsored by the School of Kinesiology

The School of Kinesiology is proud to introduce the Michigan Cancer Undergraduate Research in Exercise Scholars (M-CURES) Program, a prestigious initiative generously supported by School of Kinesiology donors. This innovative program is designed to enrich the academic and research experiences of undergraduate students interested in the area of Movement as Medicine as it relates to exercise oncology.

This prestigious initiative is generously supported by the Burnazian family.

What Is M-CURES?

M-CURES is a summer-long, mentored research experience that provides undergraduate students with advanced training and professional development. Each year, four exceptional kinesiology students will be selected for this unique opportunity to work closely with renowned faculty mentors in the field of exercise oncology.

Program Highlights

• $7,200 Stipend: Scholars will receive a stipend to support their participation in a full-time, paid summer research program, followed by opportunities to continue with engagement throughout the academic year.
• Hands-On Research: Engage in cutting-edge exercise oncology research, spanning from molecular biology to clinical application, to transform prevention, treatment, and survivorship outcomes. 
• Professional Development: Each scholar will receive professional development training throughout the summer through weekly seminars and have opportunities to present their findings at the end of the summer to School of Kinesiology faculty, peers, and donors. There is also the possibility of attending a national conference or other University of Michigan events.
• Mentorship: Scholars will benefit from one-on-one mentorship from esteemed faculty in exercise oncology, including Drs. Angela Fong, Erin Giles, David Lipps, and Elizabeth Salerno.

Why Join the Program?

M-CURES offers a transformative experience that:

• Equips students with cutting-edge research skills.
• Prepares students for graduate school or professional careers.
• Provides unparalleled access to mentorship, resources, and professional networks.

Program Details

• Summer Fellowship: May-August 2026
• Scholars will work 40 hours per week on faculty-mentored research projects over a 10-12 week summer fellowship.
• The program includes activities to support research, organization, and professional development.
• Students will submit a research summary report detailing project outcomes.

Eligibility

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be an undergraduate enrolled in the School of Kinesiology.
• Hold third-year status or have at least 54 credits by Fall 2026.
• Have a minimum GPA of 3.5.
• Commit to an in-person, full-time research position (40 hours/week) from May-August 2026.
• Demonstrate a passion for Movement as Medicine as it relates to exercise oncology.

Application Requirements & Timeline

Applications close on Friday, February 27, 2026.

Required Materials

1. Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2. Unofficial Transcript
3. Personal Statement (500-1,000 words):
   • Preferred research mentor(s) (Fong, Giles, Lipps, and/or Salerno)
   • Why is the timing right for this summer experience?
   • What experiences make you an ideal candidate? 
   • What skills will you bring to the program?
   • If you select more than one potential mentor, please indicate skills/areas of interest specific to each lab
4. Name and contact information for 1 professional reference
5. Recommendation Letter: A letter from an individual who can speak to your academic and professional qualifications; have the individual email this directly to [email protected].

Applications can be submitted via myumi.ch/xwDkj.

Interview Process

Finalists will interview in person with the M-CURES faculty. Notification of interviews will be sent via email starting in March.