Description
2026 Gap-Year Research Programs Overview
Job description
The Buck Institute for Research on Aging offers two postbaccalaureate programs for recent college and university graduates to take a 1- or 2-year break after graduation before continuing their research career. The programs emphasize both laboratory and communication skills training to develop well-rounded future scientists, healthcare professionals, and policymakers. Participants of these programs will have the opportunity to improve their laboratory, critical thinking, and scientific communication skills within the context of a mentored research project. Positions include full benefits, career development/networking opportunities, and a flexible schedule for interviews.
Please visit https://www.buckinstitute.org/education-training/undergraduate-postbacc/ for complete program information, including program eligibility requirements.
The Support and Preparation for an Alzheimer’s Research Career (SPARC) Program is a 1-year training opportunity for recent graduates that focuses specifically on Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Using an interdisciplinary approach, SPARC participants will study processes governing aging that contribute to Alzheimer’s pathology to develop novel approaches to treatment.
The Buck Postbaccalaureate Research Program offers recent graduates a 2-year opportunity to investigate insights into critical molecular and biological drivers of aging as well as translation of that research into new therapies to improve healthspan. Postbaccalaureate Researchers will conduct biomedical research to combat diseases of aging, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, cancer, and diabetes. The position will entail research assistant duties as well as training opportunities, which will include a mentored research project. International students are eligible to apply via OPT.
Program Learning Objectives:
- Plan and execute a mentored research project.
- Learn new technical skills.
- Learn how to explain scientific concepts to a lay audience.
- Learn how to write a simple grant proposal.
- Give a formal research presentation to scientists.
Requirements
Job Qualifications:
You must:
1) Be a recent university graduate from 2024, 2025, or 2026.
2) Legally be able to receive a stipend (U.S. citizen, OPT, or similar work authorization).
3) Have a GPA of 2.0 or higher.
The precise desired laboratory skills will vary from project to project, but applicants should have some prior biologically or computationally relevant research experience.
Application instructions:
A link to the online application and full descriptions of each research project will be available on November 3, 2025. Completed applications will be accepted until 12 pm PST Friday, January 30, 2026 (12 pm PST 1/30/26). Only applications submitted at the Buck website will be considered.
All requested documents must be submitted through the online application. Letter(s) of recommendation must be submitted separately by recommenders.
Compensation Details:
Salaried position between $50,000 and $60,000 with full benefits.
