Twelve exceptional University of Florida students have been selected for the 2025-26 cohort of the UF Health Cancer Center’s University Scholars Program.
The students represent three colleges across the University of Florida and will engage in cancer research projects spanning the center’s four research programs.
The University Scholars Program is a fall-spring semester opportunity for UF undergraduates to gain experience and technical skills in cancer research. Throughout the two-semester program, students complete individual research projects and Cancer Center Ambassadors host activities and monthly seminars for the scholars.
At the end of the program, scholars participate in a research symposium and give an oral presentation on their research projects. The program helps to encourage and educate the next generation of health professionals in cancer, from basic to translational research in cancer prevention, diagnostics, epidemiology, and therapeutics.
“I’m excited to strengthen my research skills and work on real challenges in cancer biology, which feels especially meaningful as an undergraduate,” said Alexa Ziff, a biochemistry major who will work in the lab of Zhe Ma, Ph.D. “This program gives me the opportunity to learn from mentors and gain hands-on lab experience that will help me as I pursue a career in research. Being selected for the University Scholars Program is an honor that makes me feel proud and motivated, knowing that my hard work can lead to an exciting scientific discovery.”
“Being selected for the University Scholars Program is an honor that makes me feel proud and motivated, knowing that my hard work can lead to an exciting scientific discovery.” — Alexa Ziff
