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The WHK program will be suspended for at least the 2025-2026 program year as it undergoes a comprehensive redesign, due to change in NIH Internship policy and requirements. Please check back here periodically for additional updates.
Additional information about the eligibility requirements for all NIH internships can be found at the NIH Summer Internship program page.

Communication Center

2019 Presidential Awards for Excellence
in Science, Mathematics and
Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM)

Werner H. Kirsten (WHK) Student Intern Program

The Werner H. Kirsten Student Intern Program (WHK) at the National Cancer Institute at Frederick is a unique, one-year internship opportunity that was designed to expose high school seniors to hands-on research and scientific support in a biomedical research environment. The scientific interns selected can gain experience via one of the following paths:

  • Scientific research internships using basic methods of hands-on laboratory training, available in number of different areas, such as:
    • Molecular Biology
    • Cancer Metabolism
    • Chemical Biology
    • Molecular cloning
    • RNA and DNA sequencing
    • Cell Biology
    • ...and many more.
  • Scientific support internships provide experience in support of science and biomedical research in areas such as:
    • Bioinformatics
    • Statistical and Data Analysis
    • Information Technology
    • Graphics and Media
    • Scientific Communications
    • IT and Security
    • Scientific Education and Outreach
    • Partnership Development.

For more details about the WHK Program please visit the "Program Information" page. For information on applying for the program please visit the "How to Apply" page.

Internship eligibility guide

  1. MUST be in your junior year at an ELIGIBLE high school when applying. See School Point of Contacts for a list of eligible schools. (If you are home schooled you may apply if you live within 30 minutes of the NCI at Frederick main campus located at Fort Detrick in Maryland)
  2. MUST turn 17 prior to 6/16/2026
  3. MUST be able to work 8 consecutive weeks (40 hours per week) during the summer prior to your senior year of high school.
  4. MUST be able to replace 2 of your school blocks with this internship and still have enough credits to graduate. (You will receive 4 weighted credits for your participation during the school year in this program)
  5. Please review all other requirements listed in the How to Apply section of this website before beginning your application to ensure you are eligible to participate.