Aspiring Physician and Medical Scientist Summer Program

This program is for high school students interested in pursuing a career in medicine or medical research. The MGH IHP Aspiring Physician and Medical Scientist Summer Program, offered by the MGH IHP Center of Excellence in Healthcare Simulation Research, gives students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in healthcare and medical research, learn from MGH IHP faculty, Harvard Medical School instructors, and earn a prestigious certificate to enhance college applications.

Seats Available: 25

Application Deadline: Rolling (payment due upon acceptance)

Time to Complete: 2 weeks

Format: Onsite

Program Date: August 4-15, 2025

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Designed for motivated and high-achieving students, this exclusive program provides an opportunity to engage with world-renowned medical professionals from the MGH IHP and instructors from Harvard Medical School. With only 25 seats available, the program offers unparalleled access to medical education and career guidance.

Sample Schedule (subject to change):

Week 1:

•    Day 1: Introduction to Surgery (Lecture), Suturing Workshop (Hands-On)
•    Day 2: Anatomy in Surgery (Lecture), Laparoscopic Surgery Simulation (Hands-On)
•    Day 3: Life-Threatening Emergencies (Lecture), Trauma Patient Approach (Hands-On)
•    Day 4: Cardiology: Heart Physiology (Lecture), Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Certification (Hands-On)
•    Day 5: Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics: Pregnancy and Labor (Lecture), Neonatal Resuscitation (Hands-On)

Week 2:

•    Day 6: Neurology: Brain Anatomy and Functions (Lecture), Neurological Examination (Hands-On)
•    Day 7: Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics Career Advice (Lecture), Obstetrics Simulation: Baby Delivery (Hands-On)
•    Day 8: Neurological Diseases (Lecture), Seizure Management Simulation (Hands-On)
•    Day 9: Electrocardiogram Interpretation (Workshop), Pediatric Emergencies Simulation (Hands-On)
•    Day 10: Stroke Simulation, Research Concept Brainstorming and Challenge Solvathon

Program Cost: $3,500 per student
Available Seats: 25 per session

Applications for the MGH IHP Aspiring Physician and Medical Scientist Summer Program are now open.

Apply

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
The payment process will be shared upon acceptance into the program.

Explore the World of Medicine

Gain hands-on experience in surgery, emergency care, cardiology, and more, while learning critical life skills for future success in healthcare.

student with gloves and eye goggles adjusts a test tube

Interactive Learning & Fun

Engage in immersive simulations, creative problem-solving activities, and collaborative research projects that make learning medicine exciting and accessible.

nursing students at a computer in a hospital hallway

Future Healthcare Leaders Start Here

Develop essential skills, explore medical specialties, and build a strong foundation for a career in healthcare through this innovative two-week program.

Faculty

Janice C. Palaganas, PhD, RN, NP, ANEF, FNAP, FAAN, FSSH

Founding Director, Center of Excellence in Healthcare Simulation Research Principal Investigator, REBEL Lab Professor, Health Professions Education

Janice C. Palaganas, PhD, RN, NP, ANEF, FNAP, FAAN, FSSH

jpalaganas@mgh.harvard.edu