SRI - CAREER ACCELERATOR PROGRAM (SRI-CAP)
Looking for your next step in life science research? Do you want to participate in cutting-edge research and learn skills that local biotech companies prize? The mission of the SRI Career Accelerator Program (SRI-CAP) is to bridge the gap between life science research and careers by providing students with hands-on projects, industry connections, and personalized career support. SRI-CAP empowers students to gain real-world experience and build successful futures in Utah’s biotech and health sciences fields. The initiative is supported by the Talent Ready Utah Life Science Initiative passed by the Utah Legislature in 2024.
The program is designed for College of Science students with more than 60 credits at the University of Utah, and ideally, at least some of the required lab courses completed (see details below). SRI-CAP students will be placed in a research stream with their peers and will conduct research on a real-world project. While participating in SRI CAP, students may enroll in independent research credit. In addition to research, students will hear from industry experts, participate in panels and networking events, visit local industries, and receive expert feedback on their resumes. This program is designed to help new advanced students engage in project-based research experiences and professional development College of Science.
Who should apply?
- SRI-CAP is designed to support students interested in life science research and careers.
- Applicants must be a declared College of Science major with 60+ credits. For wet lab/bench work projects, applicants should have completed the BIOL 1615/1625 and CHEM 1215/1225 lab sequences (or equivalent). For quantitative projects, applicants should have completed MATH 1210 (or equivalent).
How does SRI-CAP work?
- We have a limited number of spots available for Spring 2025. Applicants will be reviewed on a rolling basis until capacity is met. The priority deadline is Friday, December 20!
- Students should complete the application linked below. Applicants will have the ability to indicate specific skills they would like to develop through SRI-CAP.
- Once accepted, students will receive information on registering for research credit and potential scholarship opportunities. SRI-CAP students will receive their research assignment during the first week of the semester.
- During the semester, participants will also attend industry events and meet with a career coach for personalized resume feedback.
- For non-graduates, continuing students will be encouraged to engage with programatic activities.
Research stream examples:
- Understanding the Impact of Genetic Copy Number Variation and its Quantification Using DNA Melting Analysis, led by Bob Palais
- Antibiotic Discovery, led by Josh Steffen