# FIGOR: Fellowship In Genomics Outcomes Research

> **NIH NIH R25** · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · 2024 · $269,484

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT
Genetic counselors have rigorous training in genetics and extensive skills in communicating the
impact of genetic disease while facilitating coping. There are ~ 6,000 Certified genetics
counselors who work in broad areas of medicine and science. The Fellowship in Genomics
Outcomes Research (FIGOR) pairs genetic counselors seeking additional training and
mentorship in research with leading scientists in genomic research. Facilitating genetic
counselors' involvement in research will enhance the quality of the science of genomic and
personalized medicine through interdisciplinary collaborations. We request funding for up to 7
genetic counselor scholars who would each commit to 0.5 FTE of research over 24 months. The
long term goal is for these genetic counselors to contribute as investigators to genomic research
by seeking funding, conducting and collaborating in research, presenting and publishing
translational research beyond the clinical spaces where genetic counselors have typically
contributed. The training begins with exploration of research opportunities and development of
an individualized research plan. Included in the research plan is an educational plan which
outlines their timeline and tasks to gain the skills necessary for their research. Students will
interact with leaders in genomic and personalized medicine through their collaborations,
research seminars, and attendance at national meetings. This measured and focused timeline
will allow scholars to craft an immersive experience while benefiting from the unique and
plentiful resources at Vanderbilt including BioVU, the Data and Research Center for NIH’s “All of
Us”, the Undiagnosed Disease Program, eMERGE, and the ICARE registry. With the
establishment in 2015 of the Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt has committed substantial
resources for recruitment of diverse and collaborative faculty in genetics and genomics. The
Vanderbilt Master of Genetic counseling degree program has demonstrated how GCs are
successfully engaged in research at Vanderbilt. Of the 11 recent graduates 9 have presented at
national or international meetings. Graduates have published 5 articles in 3 different journals.
Skills-focused classroom instruction will complement experienced-based learning through
research and active collaboration with experienced mentors. Through these collaborations both
the mentee and the mentors will contribute to the growth of genomic research outcomes for
personalized medicine.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10914771
- **Project number:** 5R25HG012915-02
- **Recipient organization:** VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
- **Principal Investigator:** Nancy J Cox
- **Activity code:** R25 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $269,484
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2023-09-01 → 2028-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10914771

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10914771, FIGOR: Fellowship In Genomics Outcomes Research (5R25HG012915-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10914771. Licensed CC0.

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