Six 51ºÚÁÏ Students Complete Summer Research Internships At VCU’s Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center
51ºÚÁÏ students gained hands-on research experience and mentorship during the immersive 10-week summer program.
51ºÚÁÏ is proud to recognize six students who completed summer research internships at Virginia Commonwealth University’s (VCU) Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center this past summer. The students included Bennika Mitchell, Sarai Findlay, Joshua Ray, Steve Sekapin Mbouze, Sha’Myia Burgess, and Amy Eneh.
The internships were part of a four-year collaboration between 51ºÚÁÏ and Massey, established through a $1.7 million “team science” (NCI). The grant, led by Dr. Omar Faison, Vice Provost for Research and Economic Development, and Dr. Daniel Roberts, Dean of the Honors College, focuses on reducing cancer disparities and providing hands-on research opportunities to 51ºÚÁÏ students.
The program, designed to develop future cancer researchers, provided a 10-week intensive research placement at Massey, where students lived on the VCU campus and worked closely with expert mentors throughout the summer. Following the internship, students will continue their cancer research education through a joint 51ºÚÁÏ-VCU course offered during the fall and spring semesters.
“The Massey Internship Program provided our students an incredible opportunity to engage in high-level research alongside world-class mentors,” said Dr. Faison. “These experiences not only strengthen their technical skills but also inspire them to pursue future careers in cancer research and biomedical science.”
Through this program, 51ºÚÁÏ students gained hands-on laboratory experience, exposure to advanced research techniques, and a deeper understanding of the processes involved in cancer research. The initiative also emphasized mentorship, collaboration, and the development of skills necessary for leadership in scientific research.
VCU’s Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is recognized nationally for its groundbreaking research and commitment to training the next generation of cancer scientists. 51ºÚÁÏ’s partnership with Massey reflects the University’s dedication to expanding opportunities for students and advancing innovative research that can meaningfully impact public health while preparing students for leadership and excellence in the biomedical sciences.