# Duke Preparing Research Scholars in Biomedical Sciences- Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program

> **NIH NIH R25** · DUKE UNIVERSITY · 2024 · $289,105

## Abstract

Abstract
The U.S. continues to face barriers to advancing biomedical innovation. Ongoing challenges include an
insufficient number of individuals from underrepresented backgrounds entering biomedical training and high
attrition from the research training path. To address these barriers, we are developing a multi-track post-
baccalaureate research scholars program: the Duke Preparing Research scholars In bioMEdical sciences-Post-
baccalaureate Research Education Program (PRIME-PREP), which leverages Duke University's training
expertise, a strong multiple-PI leadership team composed of individuals with overlapping expertise in research
and mentoring, an internal and external advisory board with demonstrated commitment to training, equity and
inclusion and a cohort of diverse, experienced and passionate mentors with demonstrated commitment to
training and diversity. To ensure inclusive and productive mentoring relationships, research mentors have been
identified based on their mentorship records and their established, funded independent research programs.
Prospective mentors will complete mentor training before placement of scholars in their laboratories, promoting
a culture of effective and supportive mentoring necessary for the success of the next generation of biomedical
scientists from diverse backgrounds. Drawing on the Diversity in STEM Coalition (DISC) – a coalition of regional
undergraduate and minority-serving institutions – to identify and recruit strong candidates from underrepresented
backgrounds, PRIME-PREP will seek to enhance students’ success in entering and completing research-
focused doctoral degree programs. PRIME-PREP Scholars will participate in a tailored professional development
curriculum that prepares them for successful entry into PhD and MD-PhD programs. In addition to peer
networking within the PRIME-PREP cohort, scholars will have access to a community of peers, near-peers, and
leaders across Duke University. The one-year PRIME-PREP will place students in laboratories, where a
mentored research experience will comprise 75% of their time. Professional development activities and
workshops will comprise 25% of their time, including a 6-week summer bridge program at the beginning of the
year, training in community engaged research and professional development workshops. By implementing and
adapting evidence-based PREP frameworks, PRIME-PREP will place at least 75% of participants in PhD or MD-
PhD programs within two years of program completion.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10892222
- **Project number:** 5R25GM144242-03
- **Recipient organization:** DUKE UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** GERARD C BLOBE
- **Activity code:** R25 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $289,105
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2022-09-15 → 2027-07-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10892222

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10892222, Duke Preparing Research Scholars in Biomedical Sciences- Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program (5R25GM144242-03). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10892222. Licensed CC0.

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