The application for Summer 2026 is now open! Applications are due by March 20th. Recommendation letters (at least one, two recommended) are due by March 27th. See the application for additional details about references. Send any questions to ceba@duke.edu.
Application link: https://duke.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_exHTOVinpzc145U
Recommendation letter submission link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfAq79kQrSgs0uoxIxwQes1sz3CYCyA64QKvGANlC4RPHugRw/viewform
Mission
CeBA seeks to introduce high school students to laboratory research in Cell Biology. Participation in this program will help students develop several scientific skills including hypothesis formulation, practical bench skills, data analysis, and dissemination of results. Participants will be mentored by a current researcher in the Duke Cell Biology Department and participate in several activities outside of laboratory research such as career seminars and scientific journal clubs.
Program Description
Duke University's Department of Cell Biology is offering a paid summer research opportunity to Research Triangle-area high schoolers. Participants will complete an independent research project under the guidance of a graduate student or postdoctoral scholar. They will get to see what it is like to be a cell biologist working in a research laboratory. Our goal is to encourage the next generation of young scientists by giving them the confidence and experience to launch their careers!
CeBA 2026 will run for 6 weeks from June 22 to July 31. Students will be awarded $2,400 upon completion of the program.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be a high school sophomore, junior, or senior during the 2025-2026 academic year, and at least fifteen years old by June 22, 2026.
- Applicants should have a strong interest in studying biology in college or exploring a biological career.
- Students are expected to be on-site for the duration of a normal work day (approximately 9 AM - 5 PM).
- Students must have transportation to and from the Duke University campus. CeBA does not provide transportation or lodging.
- Students should be from the Research Triangle area.
Important Dates
- Summer 2026 applications are now open.
- Applications are due March 20th
- Recommendation letters are due March 27th
- CeBA 2026 will run from June 22 to July 31
- Admitted students and parents/guardians will be invited to a virtual orientation prior to the program start date.
Mentors
If you are interested in serving as a CeBA mentor, please fill out an interest form here or email us at ceba@duke.edu. Duke graduate students, postdocs, and staff scientists are welcome, as are mentor pairs.
Spread the Word
Educators and community members, we’d love your help sharing CeBA with high schoolers in your life. Our flyer is linked below. Please share widely!
Contact Us
Please reach out to us with any questions! Our email is ceba@duke.edu.