The American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) has officially opened applications for the 2026 Jack & Fay Netchin Medical Student Summer Fellowships, a prestigious opportunity designed to support the next generation of medical researchers in the field of neuro-oncology. This competitive program provides medical students with hands-on research experience in brain tumor science, guided by expert mentors in leading laboratories across the United States and Canada.

About the ABTA Medical Student Summer Fellowship

The ABTA’s Jack & Fay Netchin Fellowship offers $3,000 in funding to support a three-month summer research project focused on brain tumors. Students will conduct research under the supervision of a qualified Lead Mentor at an approved institution.

The fellowship aims to inspire medical students to pursue careers in neuro-oncology by providing meaningful exposure to scientific research, discovery, diagnosis, treatment, and quality-of-life concerns related to brain tumors.

Key Benefits of the Fellowship

• $3,000 stipend for a three-month research project
• Supervision by experienced mentors in established brain tumor research labs
• Hands-on experience within a professional research environment
• Opportunity to contribute to advancements in diagnosis, treatment, or understanding of brain tumors
• Eligibility for the prestigious Lucien Rubinstein Award, which includes travel reimbursement and recognition at the ABTA National Conference
• Academic and professional development in the field of neuro-oncology

Who Can Apply?

The program is open to medical students who meet the following criteria:

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be currently enrolled in a medical school (MD or MD/PhD program)
• Research must be conducted at the Lead Mentor’s institution in the US or Canada
• International students may apply; U.S. citizenship is not required
• Lead Mentor must hold a relevant faculty appointment and actively conduct brain tumor research
• Students may not be enrolled in the fellowship during a medical school academic term

Eligible Research Areas

Proposed projects may focus on a wide range of brain tumor–related topics, including but not limited to:

• Biomarkers and molecular genetics
• Brain tumor biology
• Diagnostics and imaging
• Clinical research
• Novel therapies and drug delivery
• Epidemiology and population studies
• Risk factors, prevention, and quality-of-life research

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through Proposal Central, following all submission guidelines and documentation requirements. Incomplete or late applications will not be reviewed.

Required Documents Include:

• Biosketches for the applicant and mentor
• Letters of support
• Project narrative and research proposal
• Budget details
• Signed institutional documentation

Applicants are encouraged to begin early to avoid last-minute technical challenges.

Why Apply for the ABTA Medical Student Summer Fellowship?

This fellowship stands out as one of the few opportunities specifically designed for medical students interested in brain tumor research. Participants gain invaluable experience, build professional connections, and contribute to a field where innovative research can directly impact patient lives.

If you’re passionate about neuroscience, oncology, or medical research, this program is a powerful step toward a future in academic medicine or clinical research.

The ABTA Jack & Fay Netchin Medical Student Summer Fellowship offers more than funding—it offers a chance to make meaningful contributions to brain tumor science while advancing your professional journey. With competitive selection and strong mentorship, this program is ideal for medical students eager to deepen their research experience.

Application Deadline: January 14, 2026 (12:00 pm noon CST)

Apply here: Application

For more information: American Brain Tumor Association

For more opportunities: Opportunities for Youth