Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be notified if I do not get selected?
Genomics Research Internship Program at Stanford (GRIPS) is run by a small team of researchers who are volunteering their time. We apologize that due to the number of applications, it is not possible for us to respond to every applicant. If you have not heard from us by the due date, it means you were not selected.
Is there a charge to participate in this program?
No. There is no application fee, nor is there a fee to participate in the GRIPS program.
What should I expect if I am selected?
Upon notification of acceptance, applicants will be required to fill out necessary HR documents. Participants must complete all required paperwork by requested deadlines to begin the program on time.
Will participation in this camp lead to a research paper?
That depends on the project, but participants should not expect to publish a paper. Due to the long timelines of most biomedical research, it is unusual for short experiences such as GRIPS to result in publications.
Do I need prior computer science knowledge to applydo we need to know?
None. Prior experience with computer programming is helpful, and may allow you to be more productive in your research. Your level of previous computer programming experience will be used to determine lab placement and appropriate projects. The most common languages used by genetics/genomics laboratories are Python, R, and Java. Prior experience in one of these languages is helpful, though not required.
Do I need prior internship or lab experience to apply?
No. We strongly encourage students who have not had previous research experiences to apply. While prior experience may allow some participants to be more productive in their research, GRIPS is meant to be an entry-level program that introduces high school students to biomedical research.
Can I start the internship any time I want? e.g. Sept - Jan?
No. The internship dates are June 16 - August 7, 2025. While short absences may be accommodated, students should commit to the entire length of the program. .
What are the criteria for high school students to apply to GRIPS?
Students must reside in one of the following counties: Alameda, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, or Santa Cruz counties, and be 16 years of age by program start date.
I reside outside the US. Am I eligible to apply?
No, the program is only meant for students who reside in local counties.
Can a student from a non-Bay Area High School apply to the program if housing arrangements are made by the student?
No, the program is only meant for students who reside in a local counties.
Is the program highly competitive, or do most applicants who meet the qualifications generally get in?
The program is highly competitive. Typically we receive 400+ applications for 20 positions.