McLaughlin Research Institute Summer Internship Program

Grades

High school and college students (specific grade requirements not publicly detailed)

Age

Not specified; likely 16+

Citizenship

Not specified; appears to prioritize those who identify with Montana

Prerequisites

Strong interest in STEM/biomedical research; likely requires good academic standing

Steps

1. Contact the institute directly for application materials
2. Submit application form (format not publicly detailed)
3. Provide academic information and research interests
4. Likely interview process
5. Placement into research laboratory

Materials Needed

• Application form (specific requirements unclear)
• Academic records/transcripts
• Statement of research interests
• Contact information
• Possibly letter of recommendation from teacher

Timeline

Typical summer internships run 8 weeks during summer; likely application deadline in spring (specific dates not publicly posted)

Cost

Not specified; residential arrangements not detailed

What Judges Look For

• Genuine interest in biomedical/STEM research
• Academic performance in science courses
• Motivation to learn in research environment
• Montana residency or connection (strong preference)
• Communication skills and ability to work in team setting
• Maturity and responsibility for working in professional lab environment

Scoring

Not publicly available

Common Mistakes

• Assuming application materials are available online (they appear to require direct contact)
• Not emphasizing genuine interest in research methodology
• Failing to demonstrate commitment to biomedical field
• Missing application deadlines (deadlines not clearly posted online)
• Not following up with institute directly for application details

Acceptance Rate

Unknown; not publicly disclosed

Applicants

Unknown; institute recently received 175+ applications for recruitment, suggesting institutional interest in attracting talent

Winners / Selected

Unknown; likely small cohort typical for research internships (5-20 estimated)

• Contact the institute DIRECTLY - application materials do not appear to be posted online; email the main contact or call (406) 761-6600
• Emphasize Montana connection or willingness to relocate if from rural area
• Demonstrate specific interest in their research areas: neurodegenerative disease, inflammation and aging, rural health, cancer research, women's health, behavioral health
• Highlight any prior lab experience or STEM coursework
• Show understanding of what research entails (not just academic interest, but hands-on lab work)
• Mention interest in careers in biomedical research, medicine, or related fields
• Apply early in spring (programs likely fill quickly)
• Be prepared to discuss why you're interested in research conducted in rural Montana
• Research recent publications from MRI/WHIT faculty to show genuine engagement
• Consider the unique opportunity to work on rural health problems and rural-relevant research

How to Prepare

• Excel in high school science courses (biology, chemistry, AP Bio if available)
• Take any available AP or honors science courses
• Seek volunteer opportunities in medical settings or research labs if possible
• Read about recent biomedical research and rural health challenges
• Develop strong communication skills (ability to write and present findings)
• Learn basic laboratory safety protocols online
• Research the institute's current research focus areas
• Practice explaining your research interests clearly and concisely
• Prepare references from science teachers or mentors

Resources

• Official website: https://www.weissmanhood.org and https://www.mclaughlinresearch.org
• PubMed (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) - search for faculty names to read their research
• Google Scholar for institute publications
• Khan Academy - Biology and Chemistry (free prep)
• NIH website for understanding biomedical research career paths
• Virtual lab tours or YouTube videos on biomedical research
• Books: 'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks' (introduces biomedical ethics/research)

Time Needed

Begin exploring in sophomore year of high school; serious preparation 3-4 months before application deadline

Not publicly available; however, based on institute messaging: likely students from Montana or neighboring rural states, strong grades in STEM (especially biology/chemistry), demonstrated interest in biomedical careers, prior volunteer work or leadership experience, good communication skills, flexibility about working in small-town Montana during summer

Biomedical research internships are highly valued by college admissions offices, particularly for pre-med or STEM-focused students. This internship demonstrates: hands-on research experience, commitment to STEM field, ability to work independently and collaboratively, familiarity with professional research environment. Working at a legitimate NIH-funded research institute (Weissman Hood/McLaughlin) carries significant weight. Most impactful for science/engineering majors or pre-med tracks. Position applicants well for scholarships, merit aid, and admission to competitive colleges. Can lead to recommendation letters from professional researchers (very valuable for applications).

• Congressional App Challenge — Tier 3, competition
• ARML (American Regions Mathematics League) — Tier 3, competition
• AMC (American Mathematics Competitions) — Tier 3, competition
• National Science Bowl — Tier 3, competition
• Science Olympiad — Tier 3, competition