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Undergraduate Research Education Program (UREP)

Training Tomorrow’s Scientists 

    • For over 45 years, UREP has given undergraduate students what most never get: real cancer research experience in a working laboratory, mentored by professional scientists.
    • 400+ Students Trained Representing 47 Universities
    • Over 85% Continued in Biomedical Careers (Science, Education, and Healthcare)

What Is UREP?

    • UREP is an intensive summer research program for undergraduate students interested in cancer biology, biomedical science, and medicine.
    • It runs approximately 12 weeks from May through August and combines hands-on laboratory work with structured academic learning. 
    • UREP demonstrates to students what a career in research actually looks like.
    • Unlike a typical classroom lab, UREP students work directly alongside Wood Hudson scientists on active cancer research projects. Past students have contributed to studies in breast, colon, gastric, ovarian, and bladder cancers, as well as malignant melanomas, the same research areas where Wood Hudson is making new discoveries.
    • No prior research experience is required. For many students, UREP is their first direct involvement in scientific research — and that’s exactly the point. We meet students where they are and give them the mentorship, skills, and confidence to pursue careers in science and medicine.

What Students Learn

    • In the Lab:
      • Students learn and practice real research techniques including cell culture, immunohistochemistry, tissue staining, protein quantification, and microscopy. 
    • In the Classroom:
      • Alongside bench work, students study cancer biology through textbook-based learning, journal article discussions, and a seminar series featuring guest lectures from Wood Hudson trustees, collaborating scientists, and other experts in the field.
    • Presenting Their Work:
      • Each student completes a final project — often designing an original experiment addressing a Provocative Question from the NIH National Cancer Institute. Students present at the Kentucky Academy of Science (KAS), their universities, and the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR).

Who Can Apply?

    • UREP is open to undergraduate students from any college or university.
    • Students from Every Background:
      • Over the years, the program has welcomed students from 47 different universities across Kentucky, Ohio, and beyond. 
      • Students originally from Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati students are highly represented
    • Why UREP Is Different:
      • UREP exists because the next generation of scientists, doctors, and healthcare professionals needs more than textbook knowledge. They need mentorship. They need to understand what it feels like to work in a real lab, ask real questions, and pursue real answers. Wood Hudson’s independent, nonprofit status means students get personalized attention and valuable experience from day one.

Ready to Begin Your Research Journey?

    • UREP operates year-round, with the summer program as its centerpiece. Whether you are an undergraduate student interested in cancer research or a faculty advisor looking for a hands-on research opportunity for your students, we’d love to hear from you.
      • Call: (859) 581-7249
      • Email: information@woodhudson.org