Graduate Students

Learn from National Research Experts

We are shaping the next generation of leaders in medical research. Each year, we accept new students to perform their graduate research at Sanford Research through programs at the University of South Dakota and South Dakota State University.

Graduate students at Sanford Research learn all the skills necessary for a successful career in science and research, like developing scientific techniques, completing a thesis project and engaging daily with national research leaders. Watch the video below to hear from past students as they share their experiences:

Academic and research benefits

• Train with national research leaders with expertise in vast disciplines including biochemistry, cellular biology, developmental biology, neuroscience, genetics and more
• Complete three laboratory rotations during your first year before selecting a thesis advisor
• Complete elective courses on-site at Sanford Research
• Explore a variety of science careers through career development workshops; past topics have included biotech, pharmaceutical industry, undergraduate teaching, clinical laboratory directing, science policy and technology transfer
• Engage in K-12 outreach activities through Sanford PROMISE
• Host and learn from prominent guest speakers; past speakers have included Nobel laureates and Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) investigators

State-of-the-Art Science

Contribute to cutting-edge research using advanced technologies, such as super-resolution imaging on our Nikon CSU-W1 SoRa Spinning Disk Microscope (Histology & Imaging Core) or single-cell transcriptomics using our 10X Genomics Chromium X and Visium CytAssist systems (Functional Genomics & Bioinformatics Core).  From CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to generating 3D tumor models, Sanford Research labs are performing innovative research to address current questions in biomedical science.

Our Program Mentors

Location benefits

As a Sanford Research graduate student, you’ll get to live in Sioux Falls, SD – a city that is small enough to nurture Midwest values, but big enough to offer an abundance of dining, shopping and entertainment options. With sporting events, theater, concerts and a vibrant night life, there’s something for everyone. This “big small town” also is within driving distance of USD and SDSU.

How to apply

If you are interested in doing your graduate research in a Sanford Research lab, please apply to one of our affiliated programs.  Links to the program websites, which provide details about the application process and program requirements, are listed below.  Please indicate your interest in Sanford Research labs in your personal statement.

For questions about our graduate student opportunities, please email or call (605) 312-6590.