IRACDA at the University of Chicago

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Abstract The objective of the University of Chicago IRACDA Program is to provide Postdoctoral Scholars recruited to the University of Chicago (especially those from groups under-represented in STEM) with a high-quality mentored research experience, as well as the opportunity to gain in-depth teaching experience and training at our partner institutions, Chicago State University and Northeastern Illinois University. Two Scholars per year will be selected, through a formal application process, based on demonstrated commitment to scientific investigation, need for teaching experience and desire for an academic career. Inclusion in the IRACDA and the opportunity to teach will provide a critical impetus in establishing their academic careers by increasing competitiveness for teaching positions and fostering greater awareness for promoting diversity. In turn, students at the partner institutions will receive enhanced mentorship and career advice, research opportunities, and improved and expanded curricular offerings, all of which will make them better prepared and more competitive for graduate school. Faculty mentors from the University of Chicago will supervise the research experience, and Teaching mentors from the partner schools will direct their in-depth teaching experience and training at the partner institution. It is anticipated that mentor interactions mediated by Scholars will spawn faculty collaborations as well. In addition, a formal curriculum, based in the Institute for Future Academics, in career-enhancing skills such as grant-writing, communication, lab management, etc., will be provided. The Program and its components will be evaluated with both qualitative and quantitative measures at specific intervals. The ultimate goal is to train a diverse cadre of biomedical and behavioral scientists with both research and teaching skills sufficient to be competitive for academic positions.