A new summer opportunity is launching to aspiring young scientists in the Madison area. Through a partnership with the Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the LSC Kramer Fund Summer Internship will provide a local student with hands-on experience in a professional research lab while exploring future pathways in science.

Building a Pathway into Science

The Kramer Fund will support one student during Summer 2026 with an eight-week, paid internship running from June 15 through August 15. The selected intern will work within the Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, contributing to daily laboratory operations under close supervision. Tasks will follow established procedures, giving the student a structured introduction to lab work while minimizing the pressure of independent decision-making.

Although the role focuses on foundational skills such as routine lab techniques, careful observation, and adherence to protocols, the broader goal is to make research more accessible. By offering clear guidance and a supportive environment, the internship is designed as a first step for students who are curious about science but may not yet have had the chance to explore it in depth.

Eligibility is intentionally focused on local students with strong academic standing: residents of Dane County with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, including high school juniors entering their senior year and graduating seniors who are not yet enrolled at a four-year university. Applicants must submit a completed application, a letter of recommendation, and a personal statement.

A Vision Rooted in Experience

The fund’s creator, Lily Kramer, brings a personal connection to the department. Having previously worked in a human resources role there, she witnessed firsthand the energy and innovation of its research community.

“I felt that in a time where science is being questioned and put on the back burner, we should focus on the future and the next generation of scientists,” Kramer explained. “My hope is that over time this internship fund will help many students continue to follow their passions and make a difference in this world.”

Her inspiration also came from observing a principal investigator who had created a similar opportunity for students lacking access to research experiences. That model combining mentorship with opportunity became the blueprint for the LSC Kramer Fund summer internship.

“It was an opportunity for an individual who maybe not be as privileged as others, to gain experience in a research lab,” she said. “I thought that was a brilliant idea and wanted to see it continue for years to come.”

Defining Impact Beyond the Lab

While the internship will equip students with technical skills, Kramer is equally focused on its personal and professional impact. She sees value not only in nurturing future scientists, but also in helping students make informed decisions about their paths.

“If an intern finishes the summer feeling like they have found their calling, I think that will have a profound impact,” she noted. “However, if they walk away realizing a career in science isn’t for them, I think that also is a great use of a summer. I’m still trying to figure out what I’m supposed to do.”

That perspective underscores a broader philosophy: exposure matters. For many students, especially those who have faced barriers to educational resources, simply having the chance to step inside a research lab can reshape what feels possible.

Confidence, Curiosity, and the Next Step

Ultimately, the Kramer Fund internship is about more than lab techniques. It is about confidence and clarity. Kramer hopes participants will leave not only with experience for their resumes, but with a stronger sense of direction.

“I hope students will walk away with hands-on research lab experience that they can add to their CV to help them continue their education or profession in science,” she said. “I’m also hoping that they might gain some confidence in their skills and in their choice of a career path.”

As the program launches, it represents a meaningful investment in the future of science. By pairing structured learning with intentional mentorship, the L SC Kramer Fund Summer Internship aims to turn curiosity into opportunity and opportunity into lasting impact.