# Education Modules to Boost DiveRsity And InCrease Equity in Genomics (EMBRACE Genomics)

> **NIH NIH R25** · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · 2024 · $226,036

## Abstract

Project Summary
Genetics and genomics have become increasingly important in research and medicine.
Moreover, with core tenets valuing variation, genetics and genomics must lead in the
appreciation and incorporation of diversity into biomedical research. In doing so, we must also
correct the demographic makeup of the research workforce, to more nearly represent the
diversity of the general population. We endorse that all levels of the research and clinical
workforce should have fundamental knowledge and skills in genetics and genomics and
understand its role in public health. These steps are necessary to reduce health inequities and
rebuild trust with historically underserved populations so that we may boost their enrollment in
research and incorporate genetics and genomics into their healthcare. To achieve this goal, we
will develop genomics educational modules (GEMs) for the entry-level medical and research
workforce. These modules will build on our recent experience developing and delivering an
online Genetic Assistant Training Program (GATP) to over 300 successful graduates. Using the
experience of our graduates of the GATP and input from a carefully selected Advisory
Committee of educators and employers, we will develop GEM content, best practices, and
workforce needs. The content of these modules will be devoted to the following topics: Genetics
& Genomics of Cardiovascular Conditions, Cancer, Reproductive Healthcare, Newborn Health,
Child Health, Laboratory Genomics, and Responsible Conduct of Research. Educational
content will include slide decks, recorded lectures, lab protocols, and assessments. We will
incorporate animations in education modules to boost engagement and we will build on the
educational principles of adult learning theory and universal design for learning to maximize
accessibility. We will develop, pilot, and refine existing and new GEMs targeted to students in
entry-level training programs at three Baltimore City partner sites that offer courses for
laboratory associates, medical assistants, and community health workers. These sites include
Baltimore’s BioTechnical Institute (BTI), the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC)
Medical Assistant training program, and the Baltimore City Community College (BCCC)
Healthcare Workforce Development Program. These sites were selected given their dedication
to the community, and their support and enrollment of students that come from demographics
that are underrepresented in science. Ultimately, we will disseminate the GEMs at no cost on an
easily accessible website with the capability to be downloaded and used both nationally and
internationally.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10853876
- **Project number:** 1R25HG013492-01
- **Recipient organization:** JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Carolyn D Applegate
- **Activity code:** R25 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $226,036
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-09-19 → 2027-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10853876

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10853876, Education Modules to Boost DiveRsity And InCrease Equity in Genomics (EMBRACE Genomics) (1R25HG013492-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10853876. Licensed CC0.

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