USDA Veterinary Scholars Program

Summary

This program provides students with opportunities to conduct research on livestock infectious diseases at specifically selected sites funded by the USDA. The purpose of the program is to raise awareness of federal research careers for veterinarians

Requirements of the Program Include

Students must be available at their research offsite location for 10-12 weeks to conduct research and attend the National Veterinary Scholars Symposium in August.

Eligibility and Application Process

• Any first or second year veterinary student in good academic standing.
• Please refer to the USDA website linked above for the application requirements. 
• Students are required to submit their application to the CVM Grants Office for internal review. Proposals will then be selected to forward to the USDA for consideration for funding.

Due date

Applications are due in November with notification of acceptance in January. 

Funding:

Each scholar will receive a $9,000 stipend for the summer administered through their school. Travel assistance and conference registration fees for the scholars will be provided to their universities

Cornell Veterinary Investigation & Leadership Program

Summary

The Cornell Veterinary Investigation & Leadership Program (VILP) is a 10-week summer program designed to provide incoming Cornell DVM students and current veterinary students with a rigorous and rewarding exposure to biomedical research at the highest level of inquiry, as well as to motivate students to pursue studies on research problems relevant to veterinary medicine. While Cornell DVM students are encouraged to apply, a limited number of spaces are also reserved for external veterinary students.

Requirements

In addition to hands-on research in their mentor’s laboratory, it is expected that students will participate in all associated lab activities and VILP specific sessions and events. Students lacking a background in research, but displaying enthusiasm and curiosity, are especially encouraged to apply.

Eligibility

The program dates will run from June 1, 2026, through August 10, 2026. All program participants will be required to present their scientific poster at the Veterinary Scholars Symposium (VSS). Location and dates are TBD. 

Funding

Stipend support of $6,500 will be awarded to successful candidates. Partial support is provided by The National Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Scholars Program.

National Institute of Health Summer Research Program

In addition to the National Institute of Health Summer Internship Program (NIH SIP), both NIH and the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) have numerous programs, career training opportunities, fellowships, and career awards for students and professionals in multiple scientific disciplines. Please use the link to go directly to the NIH SIP for the most up to date information on their programs and to submit applications.