Novato’s Buck Institute is the largest independent scientific institute in the Bay Area. The Buck aims to end the threat of age-related diseases for this and future generations by bringing together the most capable and passionate scientists from a broad range of disciplines to identify and impede the ways in which we age. Its goal is to increase human healthspan, or the healthy years of life. Globally recognized as the pioneer and leader in efforts to target aging, the number one risk factor for serious diseases including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, cancer, macular degeneration, heart disease, and diabetes, the Buck wants to help people live better longer. For more information and to visit the Buck: https://www.buckinstitute.org/
Summer Scholar Program Application Process
For information on the Buck Summer Scholars Program, please click on this LINK. There are five components to the Summer Scholar Program application. To apply, complete the online application in its entirety. Failure to answer the required fields completely may result in delayed consideration of your application. When you have completed the online application, you will receive a confirmation email. If you do not receive a confirmation or if you experience any technical issues with the application, please alert HRRequests@buckinstitute.org.
Virtual Information Sessions
Join us for a one-hour Zoom informational session to learn more about the program, eligibility requirements, application process, and research opportunities.
Sessions will be held:
Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 4:30 - 5:30 pm PT
Tuesday, December 8, 2026 | 4:30 - 5:30 pm PT
https://buckinstitute.zoom.us/j/87622293432
Meeting ID: 876 2229 3432
Program Details
The Buck Institute will provide housing at Sonoma State University.
Interns receive a total stipend in the $4,000 - $5,000 range in addition to housing.
Travel support will be provided.
If you have any questions about the application or the Summer Scholars Program, you may email the Senior Program Manager of Education, Dr. Gregory Chin at gchin@buckinstitute.org.
Summer Scholar Application
Starred (*) fields must be answered.
CV or resume - Please limit your CV or resume to 2 pages maximum. In particular, highlight any prior laboratory or research experience. A brief 1- or 2-line description of your specific contribution to each research project is particularly helpful. For instance, the statement "created the expression construct that allowed us to determine protein localization" quickly clarifies your role in the project compared to simply listing the lab and protocols performed. You can delve into the specifics of your research in the scientific statement.
Personal Statement - Please explain your interest in the Buck Institute and the Summer Scholars Program as well as the research projects you selected above. Highlight any relevant skills to your selected projects and/or connection between past research experiences and your selected projects. Limit your personal statement to 2 pages. You may choose whatever font and spacing you desire, provided the printed document is legible.
Scientific Statement - We would like to get a sense of you as a researcher. Please highlight your prior research experience. Note that it is more helpful to spotlight your specific contribution to the success of one or two projects rather than simply list procedures that you have performed. Your CV or resume will provide a comprehensive list of all prior research and skills. Explain your contribution to the project both experimentally and intellectually (for instance, what data did you collect and what conclusions did your data produce?). The scientific statement should not exceed 2 pages. You may choose whatever font and spacing you desire, provided the printed document is legible.
Unofficial transcript - Please provide a copy of your most recent transcript(s) in PDF format. An unofficial transcript is sufficient. The transcript should list grades from all of your completed coursework to date, including those from the 2026 Fall term (semester or quarter). If Fall 2026 grades are not available at the time of submission of the application, make sure the transcript lists courses enrolled for the Fall 2026 term.
Letter of Recommendation - At least one letter of recommendation must be submitted on your behalf. You may request one additional letter (a maximum of two total letters) be submitted on your behalf. Please download the Letter of Recommendation Directions PDF and give it to each recommender. Note that the Buck Institute will not request the letter. The directions will instruct your recommender to email your recommendation to studentrecs@buckinstitute.org by the application deadline - noon PST on Monday, February 1, 2027 (noon PST 2/1/27). Be sure to ask your recommenders well in advance, so they have plenty of time to meet the deadline. Letters of recommendation sent by the applicant will not be accepted. In case we need to connect with any of your recommenders, please list their names and email addresses as requested on the Summer Scholar Application form.
