Education
The Ellison Institute Research Foundation is passionate about education. From empowering patients with the knowledge and resources that help extend their healthy years, to inspiring the next generation of scientists and clinicians to enter the health and science fields, education is central to our vision.
Education Programs
Junior Scholars
Formerly known as Junior Fellows, Junior Scholars is a unique, three-week summer fellowship for rising high school seniors interested in clinical or research oncology, designed to foster a lifelong passion for scientific education.
About the Program
We believe that passion, coupled with outstanding aptitude, are the hallmarks for success.
Junior Scholars represents a key part of the Foundation’s mission to inspire and empower the next generation of innovators, problem solvers, and leaders and equip them with the necessary tools and knowledge to thrive in this rapidly evolving global landscape. This program fosters scientific education by incorporating hands-on experimentation in a collaborative environment.
Apply Now
The Junior Scholars application is now closed. The 2025 cohort will be notified of their selection by April 30.
Building a Community Around STEM Education
Hear from Dr. David Agus, Founding CEO at the Ellison Medical Institute; Dr. Kian Kani, Faculty and Senior Director of Education and Outreach, at the Ellison Medical Institute; and Junior Scholars alumni as they share the goals of the program, the community we’re building around STEM education, and the impact it’s having on students.
The Junior Scholars Experience with Alumna Skylar Long
Dr. Kian Kani, Faculty and Senior Direction of Education and Outreach at the Ellison Medical Institute, sat down with Skylar Long, a 2017 alumna of the program, to talk about her experience as a Junior Scholar, how it helped her make the decision to go to Physician Assistant school, and how it recently brought her back to the Institute for her Oncology PA rotation. Watch their full conversation above.
Program Highlights
- Hands-on learning with state-of-the-art laboratory instruments
- Engaging with clinical experts (oncologists, physician assistants, nurses, clinical trials, etc.)
- Learning about the applications of AI in cancer diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes
- Team-based problem-solving
- Required writing component
- Integrating students with STEAM interests from public and private high schools
- Post-fellowship guidance with career choices, college applications, and personal statements
Building Tours
Schedule a tour of the Institute’s state-of-the-art research facility on Los Angeles’ Westside below.
We currently have limited capacity for tours of our West Los Angeles facility. For all inquiries, please reach out to our Education team at [email protected].