Opportunities for Underrepresented Students in Science
There are a number of programs that target underrepresented groups in the sciences. Some of these programs are funded by the federal government and other programs are funded by private foundations and academic institutions.
Summer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP) Program
The Summer Medical and Dental Education Program is a free (full tuition, housing and meals) six-week summer medical and dental preparatory program that offers eligible students intensive and personalized preparation. Students also receive a stipend. There are 12 medical schools involved in the program.
Pathways to Research Program (PReP)
The Pathways to Research Program (PReP) formerly the Undergraduate Research Program, provides undergraduate students with knowledge, skills, and experience in translational science and health equity research through a structured core curriculum including a mentored research project, weekly research seminars, small group discussions, and a final poster to present research findings at the annual University of Minnesota CTSI Poster Session and Reception. PReP provides an opportunity for students from populations underrepresented* in research to begin or advance their research career.
The Doris Duke Conservation Scholars Program
The Doris Duke Conservation Scholars Program at the University of Michigan (DDCSP UM) seeks to increase diversity in the conservation workforce by recruiting, engaging, and inspiring diverse cohorts of 20 undergraduate scholars each year for a two-year research and experiential immersion program that incorporates minority history, culture, and experiences into their understanding of conservation practices.
Health Disparities Research Undergraduate Training Program
The Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine at Loma Linda University School of Medicine sponsors the Health Disparities Research Undergraduate Training Program (UTP). The mission of the UTP is to inspire students to play an important leadership role in eliminating health disparities through research and education.
U of Maryland School of Public Health STAR Program
The University of Maryland School of Public Health has a Summer Training and Research (STAR) Program. This program is designedto provide traditionally under-represented undergraduate students with 2 consecutive summers of a 10-week research training and career development program to enhance their potential to apply for and complete graduate degrees in biomedical and behavioral science relevant to preventing and treating cardiovascular disease.
MHIRT Minority Health International Research Training Program (MHIRT)
The under-representation of minorities in biomedical and public health research has had considerable impact on minority communities in the United States and developing populations around the world. Health experts maintain that the excess morbidity and mortality from chronic diseases in these communities is partly due to a shortage of trained health professionals who can work with a variety of ethnic groups and in different sociocultural environments. There is a need for additional training and research opportunities which will prepare students to be effective researchers and health practitioners. The Minority Health International Research Training Program was developed to help address this need. MHIRT is funded by The National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NCMHD) and the National Institutes of Health.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
The NIDDK and NIH offer many programs for high school and undergraduate students to gain experience in biomedical research. The programs focus on increasing the participation of students from backgrounds underrepresented in biomedical research on a national basis, including individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, and individuals with disabilities.
The RISE program at Rutgers University
The RISE program at Rutgers University has a research program that includes academic/professional enrichment seminars and an opportunity to network with scientists from pharmaceutical and technology industries. There is a stipend, free on-campus housing and travel reimbursement.
The Genome Sequencing Center (GSC) at Washington University School of Medicine
The Genome Sequencing Center (GSC) at Washington University School of Medicine offers summer research opportunities for rising sophomores, juniors and seniors.
Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health
The Diversity Summer Internship Program (DSIP) provides exposure to biomedical and/or public health research. It provides experience in research labs and communities.
Health Career Connection (HCC)
HCC is dedicated to assisting students to make well informed decisions about healthcare careers and gain practical experience in healthcare organizations. HCC provides paid internships, career resources and networking opportunities to undergraduates interested in pursuing careers in healthcare. One of their goals is to address the under-representation of people of color in the health professions.
The Travelers Summer Research Fellowship Program for Premedical Students
The program is designed to give 25 premedical students insights into the field of medicine including issues that affect the health of traditionally underserved groups.
University of Michigan: Summer Enrichment Program in Health Management and Policy (SEP)
The SEP encourages undergraduates to consider health management and policy as an attractive career through which they can address health disparities in communities of color. The program provides students with opportunities to learn more about health disparities, health care organizations, health management and policy, the health care system and public health, through formal and informal meetings and visits with health administrators, UM SPH alumni, UM faculty and other program preceptors.
The Center for Colon Cancer Research (CCCR) at the University of South Carolina
The CCR is leading the development of innovative and groundbreaking research in colorectal cancer. One of the primary goals of the CCCR is to foster the progression of young scientists.
The Oregon Health & Science University Summer Equity Internship Program
This program provides an opportunity to outstanding undergraduates interested in biomedical sciences, medicine, nursing, dentistry, physician assistant or public health.