Medical Student Research Opportunities

Local research opportunities

Explore projects at UNR Med, Renown Health, and with community researchers who welcome medical students and trainees. These opportunities offer hands-on experience and a meaningful way for students to apply clinical knowledge in real-world research settings. 

National research opportunities

The following opportunities hosted by external organizations offer medical students the chance to participate in competitive, nationally recognized research across a variety of specialties and institutions. For full program details, application deadlines and eligibility criteria, please visit each program's official website linked below:

AAMC research opportunities

Browse a comprehensive directory from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), including internships, visiting scholar programs, M.D./MPH and M.D./MPP pathways, and NIH research programs.

Summer research

UNR Med partners with leading institutions to offer fully funded summer internships that provide hands-on experience in clinical and translational research. These programs are highly competitive and allow students to explore a range of specialties while building research and clinical skills. 

Featured summer programs: 

University of Utah School of Medicine 

  • Two to four fully funded, eight-week internships 
  • Opportunities available across multiple specialties 
  • Applications open in December 

University of Michigan 

  • One fully funded, eight-week summer internship in cardiology 
  • Sponsored by a UNR Med alumnus 
  • Applications open in December 

Participating in externally funded research

If you're applying to a research program outside UNR Med that includes a stipend or other funding, University approval is often required. This ensures your participation complies with institutional policies and meets regulatory standards. 

We will help you: 

  • Understand program requirements 
  • Secure necessary University approvals 
  • Ensure IRB compliance 
  • Stay on track with documentation and deadlines 

To get started: 

External research rotations

Students planning to participate in a summer research rotation between first and second year should notify UNR Med least three months in advance. This allows time to establish any required inter-institutional agreements. 

Requirements: