MARC U*STAR at Alabama University

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EXCEED THE SPACE PROVIDED. The MARC U*STAR Program at Alabama State University (ASU) will support the NIH/NIGMS/Minority Opportunities in Research (MORE) Division goal to increase the number of underrepresented minority researchers in biomedical research by preparing ASU minority science students for entry into PhD or MD/PhD graduate programs. Specifically, the 2006-2011 MARC U*STAR Program will provide cross- disciplinary training opportunities for ASU science scholars in the fields of biology, chemistry, experimental psychology and quantitative sciences through a requested nine (9) MARC U*STAR training appointments. The objectives for the proposed program period are: 1) to increase by at least 30% the pool of MARC- eligible students relative to the current University level, and 2) to increase by at least 25% the number of MARC graduates who successfully enter a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. program in biomedical sciences. The proposed objectives will be achieved through a comprehensive training program that involves an aggressive recruitment of science majors demonstrating interest and potential for successful graduate study; an honors science curriculum; academic assistance programs for enhanced achievement in "gatekeeping" science and math courses (calculus, physics, organic chemistry); on- campus and extramural research experiences; presentation of research at national science conferences; an honors seminar series; formal GRE prep courses, and a volunteer freshman/sophomore feeder program (ASU START). In response to the nationally recognized need to infuse more quantitative analysis instruction into undergraduate science curricula, we propose establishment of a Quantitative Analysis Core Facility, based upon existing infrastructure for academic computing in the University's science building. This Core Facility will support both bioinformatics and biostatistics analysis instruction, and will serve as a faculty and student research resource. The proposed program will utilize a strong evaluation and student tracking system employing both qualitative and quantitative outcome measures to assess the effectiveness of program components and student success. The MARC U*STAR Program at ASU has been quite successful in achieving its goals. Of the 25 students , of the 24 students who will have completed the currently funded MARC program by 2005, a total of 44% or 11 graduates are pursuing or have been accepted to Ph.D.or M.D./Ph.D.programs (8 areenrolled or have been accepted into Ph.D.programs, and 3 are pursuing joint Ph.D./professional degree programs). Of the remaining graduates, 24% entered health/allied health professions schools (2 to medical school; 3 to allied health and 1 to PharmD program), 3 (12%)are currently enrolledin post-baccalaureate research training programs and 5 (20%)are pursuingM.S.degrees. The proposed program will assure ASU's continued success toward preparing science professionals for the U.S.scientific research workforce. PERFORMANCE SITE ========================================Section End===========================================