SURE Intern

The Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) Internship program at The Hormel Institute provides students with the opportunity to work with scientists in their respective labs on biomedical research projects. Students will expand their knowledge of basic research and gain first-hand experience learning about equipment and techniques. In addition to lab experience, students will participate in weekly professional development training. At the conclusion of the summer internship, students will highlight their research by participating in The Hormel Institute Research Symposium. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position. To learn more about SURE please visit https://hi.umn.edu/sureinternships.
Low cost housing is available on a limited basis.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS & BENEFITS

* Program dates: May 27, 2026 - August 7, 2026 (10 weeks)
* Paid internship at $16/hour for 40 hours per week.
* Laboratory-based biomedical research experience under the guidance of The Hormel Institute researchers.
* Weekly intern focused professional development engagements.
* Apply foundational coursework knowledge into practice in a real-world research laboratory setting.
* Bolster scientific communication skills by developing a research poster and presenting results at The Hormel Institute Symposium.
* Scholarship applications are available to selected interns for housing as needed during the program dates.

SELECTION

The position will remain open until February 1, 2026. Offer letters will be sent out on a rolling basis starting the last week in February.

Incomplete applications may not be considered. Please ensure you have uploaded all requested materials listed in the "Apply By Submitting" section. We highly recommend providing your references with enough time to write a letter, prior to the deadline.

Preference is given to applicants entering their Junior or Senior year of undergraduate studies.

Please ensure that the email you provide with this application is one that you intend to use frequently for program communications. Application status and other communication will happen via the email address you have supplied. It is imperative that you have reliable access to email.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications must be submitted through the University of Minnesota website.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please email employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

APPLY BY SUBMITTING:

* Current resume or CV.
* Undergraduate school transcripts; upload in .pdf or unofficial format.
* Two letters of recommendation from college professors, mentors or supervisors; upload them directly to the application site.
* 1 Page personal essay describing the following:
o Academic and career goals
o Interest in science education or health/medical research
o How you will benefit from the SURE internship program
o What you want to learn or accomplish from this program
o Research experience you have had
o If applicable, personal challenges you have faced that have influenced your life and/or academic career.

Work Profile
Profile 1, Office Lab-Based - is expected to work primarily on-site in the office/lab. Only occasionally and inconsistently working remotely. Your office will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, MN.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

* High school diploma or equivalent.
* Pursuing a science related undergraduate degree at a four-year college or University.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

* Students entering their Junior or Senior year of undergraduate studies.
* 3.0 minimum GPA.
* Previous coursework or lab experiences in Chemistry and/or Biology.
* Community involvement & leadership experience.

The Hormel Institute is an independent biomedical research institution within the University of Minnesota's Research and Innovation Office. Established in 1942, our mission is to conduct research and provide education in the biological sciences with applications in medicine and agriculture, specifically by understanding, treating, and controlling cancer and other chronic diseases. The Hormel Institute serves as a center of technical and educational expertise for the benefit of the local community, the State of Minnesota, and beyond. We are located in the uniquely diverse rural community of Austin, MN, conveniently only 35 miles from Rochester, MN, and 100 miles (1.5 hours) south of Minneapolis/St. Paul. The Hormel Institute is committed to fostering a work environment that promotes inclusive excellence, supportive employee practices, and encourages diversity of thought that drives innovation and creativity in our science.

Pay Range: $16.00 per hour depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Office of Student Health Benefits website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

Student workers are eligible to participate in the Student Health Benefit Plan, if they maintain 6 or more eligible course credits within a given semester. The same applies for Undergraduate Students, Graduate Assistants, Residents, Fellows and Interns.

Student positions are a form of financial support while pursuing an education at the University of Minnesota.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).