Scientific Immersion Program

Participants will be able to build their practical and theoretical knowledge of medical biology and become familiar with the scope of career opportunities in the sector.

Potential, determination, creativity and passion to follow a career in science are some of the key traits we look for in our research students.

Program participants will be placed within one of WEHI’s world-respected research teams at our Parkville campus. Participation in a variety of research fields is available, depending on the scholar’s interests.

Participants may observe and under supervision assist a small research project, or experience what it takes to run a larger project. Participants will also be able to attend seminars to broaden their scientific knowledge.

This is a unpaid, voluntary learning experience during university semester breaks. It is not a course requirement for the student.

SIP placements are individually arranged with supervisors. Students usually will complete their winter placement during their university winter break (June/July) or summer placement during their university summer break (November to February).

Participants must be currently enrolled in an Australian undergraduate degree and have completed at least one year of discipline-specific study. Participants must be continuing their university enrolment during their placement period. This means students in their final semester of third year are not eligible; (even if you intend to commence Honours next year).

Participants are invited to submit a short report at the conclusion of their placement that may be used by WEHI for future promotions.

WEHI is committed to offering opportunities to people from a range of different backgrounds and varied life experiences. We appreciate that diversity of thought drives innovation and leads to better scientific outcomes.

The placement is observational and educational in nature and it is not intended that participants undertake ordinary productive work.

Undergraduate students may directly email supervisors to query if a laboratory has availability to host an undergraduate student over vacation periods. Students should ensure their query email includes their CV, current academic transcripts and explanation of their research interests and relevant skills.

Supervisors will respond to students if a Scientific Immersion Program project is available.

There is no formal application deadline for the Scientific Immersion Program, as each placement is arranged directly by the labs. Each lab will have their own availability.

We recommend reaching out to supervisors as soon as you know you are interested in completing a vacation scholarship, as lab placements do fill up quickly.

Scientific Education Office
Email: education@wehi.edu.au