Voelcker Biomedical Research Academy

The Voelcker Biomedical Research Academy (VBRA) is a three-year biomedical research program at UT Health San Antonio for high school students from San Antonio and the surrounding area. It is designed for rising sophomores, meaning students who are freshmen during the 2026-2027 school year. Scholars are paired with UT Health San Antonio faculty mentors and work in their labs across a wide range of research fields. The first year includes a hands-on, seven-week summer research program plus enrichment activities during the school year. In years two and three, scholars continue with faculty-mentored research. Students receive stipends during the summers, and parents are expected to be involved.

Open to rising sophomores (freshmen in 2026-2027) at Greater San Antonio Area high schools. Applicants need 90%+ in math, science and English (85%+ in Pre-AP, AP or dual credit) and must be 15 years old by June 15, 2027. Students cannot apply on their own: each high school in the Greater San Antonio Area may nominate up to three candidates, so ask your school to consider you. School nominations are due January 29, 2027. Nominees get access to the online application on February 5, 2027, and the application is due March 5, 2027. Interviews follow, and the summer 2027 cohort will be chosen by April 30, 2027. Accepted scholars must commit to the full 7-week summer program over 3 years and may miss no more than three days of the summer program (max 3 excused absences).