Abstract A056: Supporting the next generation of researchers: The effects of a U54 Partnership

Abstract

Abstract Background: The REACH Education Core of the U54 Partnership between New Mexico State University (NMSU) and Fred Hutch is reaching under-represented (UR) students through summer internships in the laboratories of U54-funded investigators on both campuses. Objective: The objective of this study is to provide information on successful educational outcomes of under-represented students. Methods: The Partnership generated an extensive participate tracking database. Outcomes included undergraduate graduation, entry into advanced degree programs, awards, and publications. Using the tracking database, we identified the number of students who achieved these outcomes. In addition, we evaluated student attitudes, efficacy, and participation in collaborative research activities. Results: We facilitated research internships for 83 undergraduates (83% UR) and 23 graduate students (74% UR). Of the undergraduates, 96% completed their BS degree and 86% are on track to complete a graduate degree. Of the graduates, 96% have completed their graduate degree. Since the inception of the partnership in 2002, 72 (56%) of the total Partnership publications have students as coauthors. A total of 133 student participants are now employed in cancer-related research. A total of 697 students have been exposed to the Partnership's cancer and health objectives. Conclusions: The Partnership has had a high impact in preparing future scientists who will contribute to the diversification of the biomedical research workforce. The educational components of this Partnership have had exceptional successes. Implications: This study demonstrates that institutions of higher learning can implement research experiences to maintain, strengthen, and evaluate effective programs for current and future under-represented scientists. Citation Format: Marilyn Drennan, Helena Loest, Beti Thompson, Graciela Unguez. Supporting the next generation of researchers: The effects of a U54 Partnership [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Eleventh AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2018 Nov 2-5; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(6 Suppl):Abstract nr A056.