Pathways in Genomics Research Experiences for Undergraduates from Underrepresented Groups

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Project Summary/Abstract There is a critical need for genomics scientists across the United States, especially in Colorado and Metro Denver, where there is a growing hub of genomics innovation and research in academia and industry. Additionally, diversity in the genomics workforce is necessary to support creativity, study health conditions in underrepresented groups, and ensure that genomics research is generalizable and beneficial to all people. This long-term goal to ensure that genomics research can be applied across all populations will contribute to the mission of NIH to enhance health, lengthen life, and reduce illness and disability among underrepresented groups. The proposed Pathways in Genomics Research Experiences for Undergraduates (PATH- GREU) from underrepresented groups will help meet this need by preparing diverse genomics scholars for careers or further education in genomics. Undergraduate students from Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) will complete research at the University of Colorado – Denver (UCD) Downtown Campus (DTC) and Anschutz Medical Campus (AMC) that house world renowned biomedical and human genomics research laboratories. Pairing MSU Denver with UCD is ideal as the two institutions are co-located at the Auraria campus in downtown Denver and are less than 10 miles from the University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus. The PATH-GREU Program will: (1) Recruit undergraduate students from diverse demographic groups underrepresented in genomic research; (2) Establish a rigorous genomics research training program and supportive learning community that strengthens scientific understanding and promotes professional skills acquisition; and (3) Create a life-long community and mentorship network that enables scholars to embrace their identity as scientists and advance their careers in genomics. In doing so, PATH-GREU will build and support a diverse genomics scholar community within Metro Denver and Colorado.