Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program In Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases (PRIDE)

Washington University, Saint Louis MO

Investigators

Abstract

Program Objectives and Goals: This proposal aims to provide recent college graduates with an intensive two-year mentored research experience in diabetes, endocrinology, and metabolism, and tailored professional development coursework to successfully guide scholars through the graduate school application process and ensure their success in completing a research-focused biomedical degree program (Ph.D. or MD/PhD). Through our proposed recruitment efforts and multi-layered mentoring approach, this proposal will build and enhance the biomedical research workforce in NIDDK mission areas by focusing on strengthening the research excellence of program scholars. Program Design: This program is designed for college graduates who have graduated within 36 months prior to the start of the program and are not currently enrolled in a degree program. Eight scholars in total will participate in the program. In year 1, we will recruit four scholars for two years of intensive training in biomedical diabetes, endocrinology, and metabolism research and professional development by leveraging the robust physical, administrative, and educational infrastructure and resources available at WashU. In year 3, an additional four scholars will be recruited to participate in the program. Our Program Directors (PDs) have an extensive collaboration record in designing, organizing, and recruiting for diabetes, endocrinology, and metabolism-related trainee programs. They lead highly successful summer and year-round programs for undergraduate and graduate scholars at WashU to support long-term research pathways. We will use data-driven recruitment strategies and will leverage our strong relationships in the field of endocrinology and metabolic disorders to recruit scholars into the program. The Research Training Plan will include: 1) State-of the-art, structured, yet individualized research training by performing diabetes, endocrinology, and metabolism-related scientific projects; 2) Personalized selection of seminars, workshops, and coursework for scholars to develop skills necessary for acceptance and completion of top-tier doctoral degree programs and expertise in diabetes, endocrinology, and metabolism research; and 3) Engagement with other WashU post-bac and graduate-level scholars.