Supporting Undergraduate Members in Microbiology and Immunology Research

Our Goal

The Supporting Undergraduate Members in Microbiology and Immunology Research (SUMMIR) Program is a 10-week undergraduate summer internship designed to provide robust independent mentored research experiences complemented with practical skills and professional development, peer-to-peer learning, networking opportunities and classes that encourage higher-order thinking in the areas of microbiology and immunology (M&I). 

SUMMIR interns complete an innovative Laboratory Culture and Techniques (LCT) nanocourse in the first week of the program at Towson University. The LCT introduces fundamental concepts and techniques in M&I research and provides a hands-on overview of laboratory safety. Interns then conduct an independent research project at the University of Maryland, Baltimore. 

The overarching goal of the SUMMIR Program is to support educational activities that augment the success of intern applications to graduate and professional schools and empower the next generation to join the biomedical workforce and become leaders in the fields of microbiology and immunology. 

Key Features

SUMMIR Intern Benefits

• $6,000 of subsistence allowance
• Housing: low-cost housing is available at Towson University, and a $1,000 housing subsidy is provided to those residing at UMB campus housing.
• A travel allowance of $500 is available to out-of-state interns.
• The program will also pay for travel expenses for interns to attend or present at scientific conferences.

Program Highlights

Training and Research Experience
Participants engage in supervised, intensive, hands-on research using cutting-edge techniques to address fundamental questions in the microbiology and immunology field. Programming also features active learning events, including a microbiology murder mystery dinner, weekly cohort meetings, hands-on experience working with core facilities, and more!

Professional Development
The program provides workshops, seminars, and laboratory training designed to build essential professional skills, such as scientific communication and career planning.

Mentorship
Participants receive one-on-one mentorship from experienced researchers in the M&I field to navigate and prepare for graduate or professional school applications.

Networking Opportunities
The program fosters connections with peers, faculty, and professionals in microbiology and immunology research, enhancing career prospects and collaborative opportunities.

Pathway to Advanced Education
The SUMMIR Program supports participants in transitioning to PhD, MD, or other advanced degree programs, and offers resources and opportunities to facilitate these transitions.

Meet Our Leadership

Program Support

The SUMMIR Program is supported by the National Institutes of Health/National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Training Grant Number 5R25AI181751-02. The Program is administered by the University of Maryland School of Medicine Department of Microbiology & Immunology, and the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) campus.

For More Information

Please contact the SUMMIR Program Coordinator, Ola Awad, PhD.