MARC at Emory University

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT This is a new Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC) T34 to support undergraduate training at Emory University. The proposed training builds on an expiring (ends in 2023 when the proposed MARC T34 would start) Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (IMSD) program that combines undergraduate and graduate programming. The proposed MARC T34 adds innovative components focused on providing undergraduate students with inquiry-based research experiences and an inclusive, supportive community so they can complete their baccalaureate degree, transition into, and complete biomedical, research-focused higher degree programs (e.g., PhD or MD/PhD). Research training opportunities at Emory include a broad array of biomedical, public health, and other STEM disciplines. An interdisciplinary academic culture and environment coupled with extensive expertise in biomedical research makes Emory a fertile environment for training the next generation of scientific leaders. This ambitious proposed T34 will support a cohort of 20 MARC Scholars (10 juniors and 10 seniors) starting in the summer prior to junior year through graduation. MARC activities are designed to complement degree requirements to avoid an undue added burden on MARC Scholars. The primary activity supporting the proposed MARC training is an existing 1-credit Professional Development Seminar, which provides an inclusive community that bolsters scientific identity, includes skills-based learning to supplement discipline-based training, and provides access to professional development and networking opportunities. Other MARC training activities use evidence-informed approaches to train students in important scientific practices such as data reproducibility and responsible conduct of research. Innovative aspects of the program include an experienced and diverse MPI leadership team that brings distinct skills to student training, including dedicated effort from the Senior Director of Undergraduate Research Programs. A full-time MARC Assistant Director brings extensive experience in driving student success and retention through academic programming and counseling to the leadership team, while a Graduate Student liaison serves as a role model and near-peer mentor. This multi-level mentoring structure allows individualized attention to the success and wellbeing of MARC Scholars. Furthermore, the T34 mandates annual mentor training for ALL faculty preceptors to build an inclusive research environment. The depth of the pool of admitted students who would be eligible for T34 support combined with the track record of training and the potential for enhanced impact provide strong rationale for this proposed training program. The specific objectives are to: 1) recruit ~100 students from underrepresented groups at Emory during the 5-year term of the T34 and provide these students with the tools to complete their BS degrees in a timely fashion, proceed to a PhD or MD/PhD, and plot a successful career trajectory in the biomedical workforce; and 2) ensure that MARC Scholars acquire agency as scientists by contributing to at least one publication, which may be published after they graduate, and presenting their work both locally and at a national scientific meeting.