Duke Preparing Research Scholars in Biomedical Sciences- Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program

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Duke University School of Medicine has identified the lack of robust post-baccalaureate research training at our institution as a critical obstacle to the recruitment of candidates into graduate biomedical research programs. To address this barrier, we are developing a multi-track post-baccalaureate research scholars program: the Duke Preparing Research scholars In bioMEdical sciences-Post-baccalaureate Research Education Program (PRIME-PREP). Drawing on our nationwide network to identify and recruit candidates from, PRIME-PREP will seek to enhance students’ success in entering and completing research-focused doctoral degree programs. To ensure productive mentoring relationships, research preceptors have been identified based on their mentorship records and their established, funded independent research programs. Prospective mentors will complete mentor training before placement of scholars in their laboratories. This training not only serves the individual post-baccalaureate scholars, but also more broadly promotes a culture of effective and supportive mentoring necessary for the success of the next generation of biomedical scientists. PRIME-PREP Scholars will participate in a tailored professional development curriculum that prepares them for successful entry into PhD programs. In addition to peer networking within the PRIME-PREP cohort, scholars will have access to a community of peers, near-peers, and leaders participating in other tracks of the overarching Duke PRIME program, developed and funded independently of PRIME-PREP. The one-year PRIME-PREP will place students in laboratories, where mentored research will comprise 75% of their time. Professional development activities and workshops will comprise 25% of their time, with the 6-week summer bridge program at the beginning of the year constituting a large share of the total. By implementing and adapting evidence-based PREP frameworks, PRIME-PREP will place at least 75% of participants in PhD programs within two years of program completion.

Grant Number: 5R25GM144242-04
NIH Institute/Center: NIH
Principal Investigator: GERARD BLOBE