Research in the Biological Sciences (RIBS)
University of Chicago
About
Research in the Biological Sciences (RIBS) is a four-week intensive training program at the University of Chicago designed to immerse students in the professional research environment of molecular and cell biology. The program utilizes a project-based approach, transitioning from foundational laboratory techniques to advanced applications in genetics, developmental biology, and cancer biology. Students spend the majority of their time "at the bench" in the lab, supplemented by lectures that provide necessary background context for their experiments. Beyond technical skills, participants focus on scientific communication through weekly writing assignments and the maintenance of a detailed lab notebook. The curriculum includes reading original research articles and attending weekly seminars led by University research faculty. The experience culminates in a research forum where students present the findings of their independent projects to their peers and instructors. By the end of the session, students gain the technical proficiency and confidence required to work effectively in a professional research laboratory.
Application Requirements
Timeline
Application Opening
Jan 1, 2026
Priority Deadline
Jan 21, 2026
Regular Deadline
Mar 5, 2026
Residential Period
Jun 13, 2026 – Jul 11, 2026
Instructional Period
Jun 15, 2026 – Jul 10, 2026