See a Sanford Research Scientist on the Job
The Sanford Research Shadow program is designed to allow high school and college students (16 years of age and older) the opportunity to explore career options that exist within research.
You will spend time with research staff during part of their routine day in one of our biomedical research laboratories located in Sioux Falls, SD. After shadowing within our research environment, you should have an appreciation for some of the qualities required for a career in science and research.
This is not a training program. The goal is for you to experience the workplace setting as well as the duties performed by research staff in our biomedical research lab.
Research shadow opportunities are available in the following research groups:
- Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies
- Cellular Therapies and Stem Cell Biology
- Diabetes
- Enabling Technologies
- Environmental Influences on Health and Disease
- Genetics and Genomics
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases
When you apply, you must list specific groups that you are interested in shadowing. One letter of recommendation from a professor or teacher is required for participation. We will email a recommendation form to them when we receive your completed application.
After we review the application and recommendation, you will be notified of your status. All shadows are set up as a single two-hour block without recurrence. All participants will be asked to sign orientation, safety, security, HIPAA, and confidentiality forms prior to starting their shadow experience. Participants also will be required to complete an evaluation form.
To apply:
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate in the Research Shadowing Program?
College students and high school students who are at least 16 years old can participate.
If I’m under 18 years old, do my parents need to sign the research shadow application form?
Yes, your parent or legal guardian must sign the application form if you are under the age of 18.
What happens after I submit my application?
The manager of research education programs will reach out to you to discuss your application and interests.
It’s the day of my research shadow, but I’m feeling sick. What should I do?
Please call the manager of research education programs at (605) 312-6590 and ask to reschedule your research shadow.
What is the dress code?
We require your legs to be completely covered with long pants or a skirt that extends to the ankle. Leggings must be designed to be worn as pants (no tights or nylons). Shoes must completely cover the top and sides of your feet. We provide personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed for your shadow experience.
Where should I park on the day of my research shadow?
Please park in the main parking lot in the southeast corner of the Sanford Center. Enter through the main lobby doors by the globe and towers to check-in with the receptionist.
What should I bring?
You won’t need to bring anything to your research shadow, and we ask that you leave your purse, cell phone or backpack in your car.