The goal of the ALSF POST program is to expose students to the field of pediatric oncology research while experiencing a real-time research project. It is expected that students will develop practical research skills and engage in a mentoring relationship with a pediatric oncology researcher.

POST provides an opportunity for students to train with a mentor who is conducting research in the field of pediatric oncology. A mentor/mentee pair is a prerequisite for applying. Students may join a research project underway in a mentor’s lab or begin an original investigation with the mentor. Although the mentor and the student should work together on the application, it should be submitted online by the mentor. Students may train at an institution other than their own college, graduate or medical school, and the internship should last 8-10 weeks during late spring/summer over a time period mutually acceptable to both the mentor and the student.

ALSF seeks to increase diversity in the pediatric oncology research community by supporting the next generation of biomedical researchers from underrepresented communities. Approximately 1/3 of the 2022 ALSF POST Program awards will be reserved for students who identify as being from a racial and/or ethnic group that is underrepresented in the scientific workforce as defined by the NSF and NIH. The following groups have been shown nationally to be underrepresented in biomedical research: Blacks or African Americans, Hispanics or Latinos, American Indians or Alaska Native, Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders.

As of 2022, the Foundation has added three required virtual events to the POST Program to ensure that the students and mentors are introduced to one another, network, and share their experiences. There will be an Orientation/Welcome webinar with guest speakers, and Speed Presentations by the students. 

Proposals must fall within the scope of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation’s mission, focused on childhood cancers. 

Grant Requirements:

• The student is expected to reach program goals and complete the submitted training plan. ALSF expects the student to become productive in their role on a project; however, completion of a full research project is not required.
• Attendance at seminars and other educational events related to the field, occurring at the mentor’s institution, is encouraged.
• Students are required to attend three ALSF POST Webinars and are encouraged to attend the additional networking events. Dates to be determined.
• Students are expected to respond to occasional follow-up surveys in subsequent years.
• A Final Report.
  

• Others (see text field entitled "Additional Eligibility Criteria" for clarification)