STEP Science & Nutrition Summer Research Program

Originally sponsored by the Hilton Foundation from 2017–2021, the High School Science and Nutrition Summer Program was designed to introduce students to foundational concepts in nutrition and health. Students explore the role of macromolecules: carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and examine how a balanced diet supports overall wellbeing.

Throughout the program, students investigate how genetics, personal behaviors, and access to medical care and fresh food influence health outcomes. Using real world examples and guided discussions, participants examine how food systems, the environment, and community contexts shape both individual and population health. Students also visit City of Hope’s community garden, the Garden of Hope, to reflect on the broader social, environmental, and cultural impact food plays in society.

 
Over the four week program, students build on these core ideas through case studies, structured discussions, and applied learning exercises. Rather than focusing on traditional laboratory research, the program emphasizes scientific literacy, critical thinking, collaboration, and problem solving skills.

Students work in small groups to complete a final project, gaining experience in:
•    Developing or refining a scientific or health related question
•    Reading and extracting key information from peer reviewed scientific literature
•    Collaborating effectively in a team setting
•    Communicating scientific findings to a general audience

The program culminates in a final in person student presentation, providing participants with an opportunity to practice scientific communication and share their learning in a supportive academic environment.
 

Program Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria at the time of application:

• Be a current high school student in 9th, 10th, 11th or 12th grade
• Be able to attend all program dates and times in person
• Be able to commute to our main campus in Duarte, CA

Program Dates and Location

This is a half-day, in-person program held on our campus.

2026 Session Dates:

• Week 1: July 7, July 9, July 10
• Week 2: July 14, July 16, July 17
• Week 3: July 21, July 23, July 24
• Week 4: July 30

Class Time

9:00 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Location

City of Hope - Duarte Campus 

1500 E. Duarte Rd. 

Duarte, CA 91010

Please note:

• This is an in-person program
• Housing and overnight accommodations are not provided
• Students are responsible for their own daily transportation to and from the campus

How to Apply

• Submit the 2026 online application

  Complete the application online via Google Form. 

  Application deadline: Sunday, March 9, 2026 at 11:59 PM

  Complete application

• SUBMIT YOUR SUPPLEMENTARY DOCUMENTS

  After submitting your online application, you will receive a secure upload link from our team to submit the following required documents:

  • Unofficial transcripts
  • Resumes

• Important:

  • Please allow up to 72 hours for the link to arrive
  • If you do not receive the link after 72 hours, check your spam folder and then email [email protected] for assistance
  • Applications are considered incomplete until BOTH required documents are received by the deadline

Interview Process

As part of the selection process, some applicants may be invited to participate in a virtual interview with the STEP team.

• Interviews will take place between March 16-27
• Not all applicants will be selected for an interview
• Interview invitations will be sent via email
• Please check your inbox and spam folder regularly for messages from our team.

Admission Decisions

Final admission decisions will be sent by April 10, 2026

Questions?

For questions, please email [email protected]