Abstract Representation of minority groups in biomedical research, including research on alcohol effects and alcohol use disorders, is low; and individuals who identify as members of underrepresented minority groups (URMs) pursue such careers at far lower rates than expected considering the demographics of the U.S. This project will focus on cultivating the interest of undergraduate students in alcohol related research to increase the pool of diverse applicants pursuing alcohol-related research careers. We have established a partnership between Duke University (a private, R1 university) and North Carolina Central University (NCCU; a public HBCU). Our program, entitled Duke-N.C. Central Alcohol Research & Education (D-CARE) will provide educational, research training, and intensive mentoring for undergraduates from both institutions. D-CARE will: 1) Focus entirely on undergraduates; 2) Pair laboratories and academic courses from Duke and NCCU to provide innovative alcohol-related academic and research opportunities to URM students from both institutions; and 3) Provide a wide range of professional development opportunities and track the progress of participants as they complete their undergraduate training and move forward into graduate or professional education. A primary goal of the program will be for students from each institution to study and train with students from the other, thereby leveraging the distinct strengths of each university. Aim 1 will promote in-depth understanding of the biomedical, public health, social and cultural impacts of alcohol through didactic training, and engagement with the Research Triangle alcohol research community by providing a semester-long course focused on alcohol and its various biological, clinical, and social impacts. This Aim will also establish a rich professional network through which D-CARE participants will acquire specific skills and guidance toward careers related to alcohol research. Aim 2 will provide an immersive summer alcohol research experience in Duke and NCCU laboratories that includes personalized research mentoring, and both group and individualized professional development education. Aim 3 will provide continuing professional development and mentoring opportunities for participants, and an empirical evaluation component to document participants' progress toward career goals and follow their progress beyond their undergraduate experience. The program will continue to support participants by providing monthly meetings with program mentors throughout the following academic year. In addition, meetings and resources will be provided to support students' specific research endeavors including advice on poster construction, presentation planning, graduate school/employment applications, and evolving career development considerations. The program will also provide specific preparatory advice and support for participants attending scientific conferences in the academic year following the summer r...