Veterinary Summer Scholars Program (VSSP)
Veterinary Summer Scholars Program (VSSP)
Veterinary Summer Scholars Program (VSSP)
The Shreiber School's Veterinary Summer Scholars Program (VSSP) is a competitive, immersive 12-week summer research experience designed to strengthen DVM student training as both future veterinarians and scientific investigators. The program provides a paid research opportunity, close mentorship from veterinary school faculty, and structured professional development in research fundamentals.
Are you a student interested in applying? Click HERE to access the Summer 2026 Cohort application! Please log in using your Rowan University email account!
Program Overview
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Time Commitment: 40 hours/week
- Stipend: $5,000
- Travel Support: Up to $2,500 for presenting at the National Veterinary Summer Scholars Symposium (NVSS)
Students will work with veterinary school faculty mentors on independent or collaborative research projects and will present their findings at the NVSS. The program also includes weekly seminars on research methodology, scientific communication, ethics, and career development.
Program Goals
- Engage DVM students in hypothesis-driven research early in their training.
- Build essential skills in scientific reasoning, communication, and presentation.
- Expose students to diverse research-related career paths across academia, industry, and government.
- Strengthen participation in the Shreiber School's One Health and interdisciplinary research initiatives.
Program Highlights
- Immersive research experience in basic, clinical, wildlife, or educational research areas.
- Weekly seminars on scientific writing, data analysis, research ethics, and professional skills.
- Direct mentorship from veterinary school faculty with expertise across multiple disciplines.
- Opportunities to present at local and national scientific meetings.
Key Dates & Timeline for Student Applicants: Summer 2026 Cohort
- December 8, 2025: Program announcement and application opens; students begin contacting mentors.
- January 23, 2026: Student application deadline
- Mid-February 2026: Notification of selected scholars
- May 15 – August 7, 2026: Full-time summer research program, culminating in the NVSS poster presentation
Contact Information
For questions or additional details, please contact:
• Dr. Nora Jean Nealon — nealon@rowan.edu
• Dr. Pratap Kafle — kafle@rowan.edu
• Dr. Omar Tliba — tliba@rowan.edu
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can serve as a faculty mentor?
Any full-time Shreiber School faculty member engaged in research can serve as a faculty mentor.
Who is eligible to apply?
Rising second- and third-year Shreiber School DVM students are eligible. Previous participants may apply again, though priority is given to first-time applicants.
What is the expected time commitment?
The time commitment is full-time (40 hours/week) for 12 weeks, mid-May through mid-August.
What are the program benefits?
Program benefits include a $5,000 stipend, up to $2,500 in travel support, dedicated mentorship, and hands-on research training.
How many students can a mentor host?
Mentors can host one student per project. Some faculty may offer multiple project opportunities.
What costs must faculty cover?
Project-specific expenses (e.g., lab supplies, software, reagents, or fieldwork-related materials) will be covered by faculty.
