Didactic coursework
In preparation for the hands-on research experience participants enroll in a three-credit course that covers the fundamentals of clinical research, including topics such as research methodologies, designing outcomes, and analysis of clinical data. Students are expected to complete all work assigned in the courses, perform well on chapter quizzes, and to actively participate in class discussions. Textbooks are provided.
Full-time biomedical research
Students are required to pursue their research training full-time, normally defined as 40 hours per week, throughout the duration of the program. Students must complete no less than 8 weeks of full-time biomedical research as active members of their mentor’s research team. Students work alongside their mentors. During this time, students engage in lab meetings, presentations, and may conduct some independent research assigned by their mentors. Students gain insights into the process of conducting research and become part of the collaborative process of sharing techniques, new endeavors, and successful investigative outcomes.
Responsible Conduct of Research
Prior to conducting research, scholars will be responsible for completing the online Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) training on the Responsible Conduct of Research. A research ethics seminar will be given during orientation week, as well as integration of key points regarding Responsible Conduct of Research during weekly skill-based sessions.
Seminar Series
Program participants are required to attend the weekly Friday Seminar Series, and encouraged to attend additional seminars to allow for professional development and networking with similar program scholars.
Friday Seminar Series
All participants are required to attend a one-hour summer research seminar held every Friday throughout the duration of the program.
NIDDK Seminar
All participants are required to attend an NIDDK-sponsored seminar series throughout the duration of the program.
ENDURE Seminar
All participants are encouraged to attend a weekly research seminar, held by the ENDURE Program.
PRIDE Group Discussions
All participants are encouraged to participate in weekly discussions on various topics related to cardiovascular disease comorbidities, genetics, and epidemiology
Final Presentations
STEP-UP students are required to attend the annual research symposium to present their research project. This meeting is typically held in-person during the first week in August. Transportation, housing, and meals covered.