Salk Edge Summer Research: CRISPR, Neuro & Bioinformatics

Overview

Salk Edge Summer Program is a two‑week, technique‑intensive summer initiative designed to equip PhD students with advanced research skills and professional development tools for successful careers in science. Participants receive round‑trip travel, lodging, and a $1,500 pilot grant to implement new technologies at their home institution.

August 17, 2026 – August 28, 2026

During this two‑week hands‑on session at The Salk Institute, students learn CRISPR/Cas9 techniques to create genome‑edited cell lines in culture and apply them to their thesis projects, supported by the $1,500 pilot grant.

Students learn cutting‑edge computer vision and deep learning tools for analyzing large‑scale neural and behavioral data, gaining basic Python programming skills applicable to their projects, with pilot grant support.

Students analyze transcriptional expression data from RNA‑seq of immune cell populations, perform flow‑cytometry sorting, library preparation, and bioinformatics analyses, utilizing the $1,500 pilot grant to support their home research.

• Current PhD student who has identified a thesis advisor and an active thesis project.
• Able to commit to the full program dates in person.
• Travel from within the United States.

• Resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
• Project abstract
• Broader Impacts statement
• Pilot funding application
• Letter of support written by primary thesis advisor (1–2 pages). The letter should include:
  • Written on institutional letterhead signed by the advisor
  • Relationship and length of relationship
  • Recommendation of candidate for program
  • Likelihood of pursuing postdoctoral position
  • Support for full participation in program
  • Agreement to pilot funds terms & conditions

• Edge Rubric Score
• Salk Edge Summer Research Programs Terms & Conditions

Final date to receive applications is Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 8:00 am PST.

Equal Opportunity Employer. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.