G-RISE at UMBC

PROJECT SUMMARY
The purpose of this application is to obtain funding to support 36 doctoral trainees per year in participating
departments/programs at UMBC (Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical, Biochemical and Environmental
Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, Physics and Psychology).
The G-RISE trainee pool will include students who are underrepresented in STEM fields; specifically, racial and
ethnic minorities, and students with disabilities. The specific measurable outcomes are to (1) maintain high
enrollment and retention rates in the program, (2) increase research productivity, (3) improve performance in
core competencies, (4) enhance career readiness, (5) promote an inclusive research environment, and (6)
increase faculty participation in G-RISE activities.
G-RISE at UMBC will provide comprehensive financial support in years 1 and 2. Competitive funding can be
obtained in year 3 of the program based on the assessment of mentor/mentee proposals to advance research
while enabling the trainee to acquire skills and experience relevant to career interests. Students will be recruited
regionally and nationally through outreach activities, participation in recruitment events, social media presence,
and presentations at scientific conferences. Recruitment will be carried out in a holistic manner, as a joint effort
between the participating departments and the G-RISE team. Retention, which is already very high, will be
maintained at current levels. The G-RISE program will enhance career development through individualized
mentoring. Trainees will enroll in the required Summer Bridge to enhance writing skills and facilitate transition
into graduate school. Trainees will also complete a course on the Responsible Conduct of Research and attend
several workshops: career exposure, grant-writing, quantitative skills, and transition into the workplace. They will
also participate in community-building activities, monthly meetings, and annual retreats. In addition, trainees will
have the opportunity to carry out elective, hands-on training and take on additional coursework to prepare them
for careers of interest. Faculty mentors will be expected to participate in mentor training and G-RISE- sponsored
activities that seek to promote an inclusive environment. The efficacy of the program will be monitored regularly
by analysis of performance and trainee and alumni surveys.

Grant Number: 5T32GM144876-04
NIH Institute/Center: NIH
Principal Investigator: Rachel Brewster