American Cancer Society Healthcare Experience and Research in Oncology (HERO) is a virtual, multi-institutional, synchronous program for high school students. Current freshmen, sophomores, and juniors interested in STEMM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine) are encouraged to apply. Program activities are designed to foster an interest in health-related careers, acknowledging the unique challenges of rural Iowans. Programming is delivered in part through a partnership with eCLOSE Institute.
Program Description:
Over the course of two weeks, students collaborate with peers from the Midwest on a genetics-based research project and a patient case study project, exploring facets of cancer science and clinical care. Students also participate in faculty lectures, panel discussions, and skill-building workshops to acquire knowledge and network for their next steps on biomedical career pathways. Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center is pleased to enroll up to 20 HERO applicants each year.
Participating Institutions
As part of a cohort, HERO participants enrolled through the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Iowa will complete all program activities in collaboration with peers enrolled through:
Eligibility
- Full-time high school student status at the time of application (rising sophomore, junior, or senior in Summer 2026)
- Strong interest in a career in scientific research, biomedicine, or another cancer-related field
- Ability to commit to the full two-week program (July 20–31, 2026, Monday–Friday, 4 hours per day)
- Resident of Iowa
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Benefits
- Mentorship from researchers in the cancer science field
- Network of faculty and peers across program sites
- Targeted career development workshops with professionals in cancer research and care
- Lab kits for the experiments related to the program
- $500 taxable stipend
Application and Program Dates
ACS HERO is a two-week, part-time, virtual program held on weekdays from July 20-31, 2026.
The application for Summer 2026 is now open through April 24, 2026.
Apply here:
https://redcap.icts.uiowa.edu/redcap/surveys/?s=98WFMXYD388RKXXX
To expedite your application process, you could have these items ready:
- Parent/guardian available to give consent for the minor to participate, as well as provide parent/guardian's email address
- Current GPA and list of courses taken in high school
- Consent from a teacher who can provide a short recommendation for you to participate - provide their name and work email address. Please select someone who can reflect on your interest in science, your ability to work with other students in an educational setting, and your ability to honor commitments and deadlines.
- Personal statement essay prompts:
~ Of the learning opportunities related to careers in science and medicine, why have you chosen to apply to the HERO? For example, you might discuss how the program relates to your academic and career plans, the nature of your interest in cancer, or what you hope to gain from the experience. (250 words or less)
~ What qualities and experiences do you have that best prepare you for the scientific and professional demands of this program? (250 words or less)
~ Scientific progress depends on unique expertise and perspectives. Tell us about an aspect of your own perspective, viewpoint, or lived experience that is important to you, and describe how it shapes the way you would learn from and contribute to the HERO community. (250 words or less)
~ Is there anything else important for us to know about you? (250 words or less)
Accessibility Request
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please contact STEM-K12-Cancer@uiowa.edu in advance.