Short Term Research in Immunology and Virology Experience (STRIVE-T35)

This is a new 12-week research program designed exclusively for Ohio State University medical students, providing foundational training and research opportunities in immunology and virology. The program is supported by 38 outstanding faculty mentors, including 21 physician scientists, across four domains: Transplant Immunology, Immuno-Oncology, Virology, and Autoimmune Disease. Ohio State is one of only six institutions nationwide to be awarded an NIH T35 program through the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

The program aims to expand the immunology and virology trained physician and surgeon scientist pipeline by enhancing:

  • immunology and/or virology knowledge, skillset, and research experience,
  • exposure to impactful mentors leading cutting-edge immunology and virology research,
  • access to physician scientist role models, and
  • peer mentorship by MD-PhD students, residents, and fellows pursuing medical research careers.

The program offers a competitive stipend, travel funds, and summer tuition support. Additionally, up to two students may continue their research through a funded one-year research leave of absence.

Group photo of the STRIVE T35 team. 2025 inaugural NIH STRIVE T35 Cohort and Primary Investigators.

For more information, please read our news article on the New NIH-supported training program. 

Program overview

How to apply and requirements

Primary Investigators

Ginny Bumgardner

Ginny L. Bumgardner, MD, PhD, FACS

  • Professor of Surgery
    Comprehensive Transplant Center
    Associate Dean for Research Education
    Director, Masters of Medical Science Program
    Director, Dept. Surgery Research Training Program
    Co-Program Director STRIVE T35
Benjamin Kaffenberger, MD

Benjamin Kaffenberger, MD, MS, FAAD

  • Associate Professor of Dermatology
    Director, Medical Student Research Program
    Vice-Chair Research, Department of Dermatology
    Co-Program Director STRIVE T35
Kenneth Oestreich

Ken Oestreich, PhD

  • Associate Professor of Microbial Infection & Immunity
    Director Immunology and Immunotherapeutics Graduate Program
    Co-Program Director STRIVE T35

Mentors by specialty