The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a world leader in research whose mission is to serve as a center for research, scholarship, and creativity and to teach a diverse community of undergraduate, graduate, and professional students to become the next generation of leaders. The Amgen Scholars Program at UNC-Chapel Hill provides opportunities for students to join the research community at UNC-Chapel Hill and engage in research focused on bioscience and discovery, development, and refinement of biotechnology.
Students in the Amgen Scholars Program will be paired with a faculty mentor and will engage in 9-10 weeks of hands-on research aimed at addressing society’s most critical challenges. World-class faculty from a diverse array of disciplines including medicine, pharmacology, biomedical engineering, chemistry, genetics, biology, and other STEM-related fields will provide mentored research opportunities for participants. Scholars will also participate in a variety professional development and social activities with other Amgen Scholars and students in other summer undergraduate research programs as part of an immersive learning environment.
The goal of the Amgen Scholars Program at UNC-Chapel Hill is to recruit students from diverse backgrounds and provide them with skills and knowledge that will make them highly competitive applicants for graduate studies and careers in bioscience and biotechnology. Undergraduates who are US citizens or permanent residents and have at least one remaining year of undergraduate studies (i.e. not graduating seniors) are encouraged to apply. Prior research experience is not required. Selected participants will receive a $4,200 stipend, a food allowance, and housing on the UNC-Chapel Hill campus.
PROGRAM DATES:
May 26 - July 24, 2026
APPLICATION DEADLINE:
February 1, 2026
Since the program is competitive and attracts many strong candidates, the following factors tend to correlate with successful applicants:
1) 📊 Academic Performance & Coursework
Solid grades in science, math, and relevant coursework help signal readiness for research.
While some sites don’t have strict GPA cutoffs, higher performance still strengthens you as a candidate.
Why it matters: Admissions committees want scholars who can thrive in an intensive research environment.
2) 🧪 Research Interest and Motivation
Write a clear personal statement that explains:
Why you want to do research
What scientific areas excite you
How the Amgen experience fits your career or graduate school goals
This narrative is especially important because many students may not have prior research experience — but demonstrating curiosity and commitment can set you apart.
3) 👩🏫 Letters of Recommendation
Strong letters from professors who know you academically (especially in science/math) help reviewers understand your potential for research success.
Choose recommenders who can speak specifically to your intellectual curiosity, work ethic, and laboratory potential.
4) 🧠 Relevant Experience (If Any)
Prior research is not required, and the program welcomes both beginners and those with experience.
But if you do have experience — such as lab work, internships, or technical coursework — clearly documenting it boosts your application profile.
5) 📌 Fit with Host Institution or Location
Some regional programs (e.g., Europe) require securing a project supervisor before applying.
Research the specific host site’s focus areas and make sure your interests align with potential research groups — this shows preparedness and initiative.
6) 🗣️ Communication & Engagement
The program is not just research — it includes seminars, presentations, and networking. Applications that show good communication skills often stand out.
Your personal statement and interview (if applicable) are where you can shine here.
✔ Confirm eligibility for the specific host site and region.
✔ Prepare transcripts and academic documents early.
✔ Write a concise, compelling personal statement about your goals and interests.
✔ Line up letters of recommendation well before deadlines.
✔ For European sites, secure supervisor support before submission.
✔ Highlight your motivation to pursue research — even without prior lab experience.
| Predictor | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Strong academic record | Shows preparedness for research |
| Compelling personal statement | Demonstrates motivation & fit |
| Good recommendations | Validates your potential |
| Clear interest in science research | Aligns with program goals |
| Fit with host institution’s research | Increases chance of placement |
Amgen Scholars U.S. Program applicants must be:
U.S. Program applicants must also have:
Eligible Countries:
Sponsor Institute/Organizations: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Sponsor Type: Corporate/Non-Profit
Address: Harvard University, URAF, 837 Downey Way, STO Suite 113, Cambridge, MA 02138
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Feb 01, 2026
Feb 01, 2026
$6,000
Affiliation: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Address: Harvard University, URAF, 837 Downey Way, STO Suite 113, Cambridge, MA 02138
Website URL: https://amgenscholars.com/university/university-of-north-carolina-at-chapel-hill/
Disclaimer:It is mandatory that all applicants carry workplace liability insurance, e.g., https://www.protrip-world-liability.com (Erasmus students use this package and typically costs around 5 € per month - please check) in addition to health insurance when you join any of the onsite Trialect partnered fellowships.