Summer Program in Biostatistics and Computational Biology

About the program

Enjoy math, statistics, and computation? Intrigued by big data? Eager to impact public health?

Explore Biostatistics & Computational Biology at Harvard this summer!

The Summer Program in Biostatistics & Computational Biology offers diverse undergraduate students a unique opportunity to learn about the use of quantitative methods for biological, environmental, and medical research alongside Harvard faculty, researchers, and graduate students.

During the course of the program, students will:

• Take noncredit courses in biostatistics and epidemiology
• Learn statistical software packages (Python, R, STATA)
• Participate in a collaborative research project with other students, guided by a graduate student and mentored by a faculty member
• Prepare and deliver a polished presentation that reports on your research project at the annual symposium
• Prepare for GRE’s
• Attend several talks about current research and hot topics in Public Health (e.g., environment, nutrition, social behavior, population health, public policy) by internationally renowned researchers
• Travel to local laboratories and research centers to observe Public Health research in action
• Enjoy social and cultural activities in the lively Boston summer
• Explore graduate school options in quantitative Public Health from our Director of Graduate Studies and prepare for graduate school applications
• Participate in Professional Development Workshops led by Harvard faculty and staff.  Topics include public speaking, writing your personal statement, resume building, and navigating academia
• Build relationships with fellow students with similar interests and with faculty in Public Health

Travel to Boston and living stipend (including lodging and some meals) are provided.

Eligibility & application

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants for the Summer Program Must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (proof of permanent residency must be provided).
• Carry health insurance during the 6 weeks of the Summer Program. No exceptions.
• Individuals from an underrepresented group in graduate research, which includes:
  • A first-generation college student (neither parent nor legal guardian has a bachelor’s degree)
  • A low-income student; Annual family income below established low-income thresholds, based on family size (this requires additional supportive documentation)
  • A disabled student according to the definition of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

Please note: Eligibility is not restricted on the basis of race or ethnicity, and race and ethnicity are not considered in the selection process.

Ideal Applicants for the Summer Program Should:

• Have a strong background and interest in quantitative subjects such as mathematics, statistics, or computer science
• Be in good academic standing with a strong GPA, and have completed coursework in calculus
• Be a student interested in pursuing graduate studies in biostatistics or computational biology
• Be a rising junior, senior or recent college graduate.  Freshmen and sophomores can apply, but preference will be given to upper level college students

Application Requirements

• Completed Application Form
• Resume
• Official Transcript(s)
• Two Letters of Recommendation, preferably from faculty members who can attest to the applicant’s overall suitability for research, motivation, and classroom performance
• A Personal Statement, describing background, experience and reason for interest in the program (1,000 words or less)

Application Procedure

2025 application deadline: February 7, 2025

A completed electronic application form and supporting materials, including letters of recommendation, must be submitted by the deadline. Decision letters will be emailed to applicants in March. The program typically accepts 8 participants. You will be asked to upload PDF files of your resume, personal statement, transcripts from all colleges attended, and a scanned copy of your medical insurance card, if currently insured.