Akron Children’s seeks college students for 2026 Summer Pediatric Research Scholars program

11-06-2025 (Akron, Mahoning Valley, Ohio)

Akron Children’s is accepting applications for its 2026 Summer Pediatric Research Scholars (SPRS) program, a 10-week opportunity for college students interested in exploring careers in pediatric medicine and research. Applications are open through Nov. 28.

Hosted by the Rebecca D. Considine Research Institute, the program invites college sophomores and juniors considering careers in a wide range of health care professions, including physicians, advanced practice providers, pharmacists, therapists, nurses, medical scientists and researchers, to gain hands-on experience in clinical research while working alongside experienced clinical investigators at Akron Children’s.

Each scholar is paired with a hospital clinician or scientist and contributes to a specific research project focused on topics such as improving patient outcomes, enhancing safety and quality of care or evaluating innovative clinical interventions. Scholars work a minimum of 24 hours per week beginning in early June.

Beyond research, the program provides a comprehensive look at pediatric health care. Students can shadow clinical teams in a variety of hospital departments – from the neonatal intensive care unit to sports medicine – and participate in weekly seminars covering study design, research methods, biostatistics and pediatric career paths. Students also attend a simulation workshop at the hospital's Simulation Center.

At the end of the program, students present their research findings to an audience of peers, mentors, hospital leaders and family members.

A paid scholarship is awarded to each student’s college or university to help offset participation costs. Students are responsible for arranging their own housing and accommodations.

Applicants must submit an essay, resume and two letters of reference by Nov. 28. No prior research experience is required. Following the application deadline, selected candidates will be invited to participate in interviews.

To learn more or apply, visit www.akronchildrens.org/sprs.