# Post-baccalaureate Training in Biomedical Research

> **NIH NIH R25** · MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER · 2020 · $129,844

## Abstract

The goal of the Mayo Clinic Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program (PREP) is to increase
the number of individuals from underrepresented groups who choose biomedical research careers.
We are motivated by the concept that a diverse research environment fosters more innovative research
than a homogeneous environment. Many training programs seek to enhance the diversity of the biomedical
research workforce. However, few of these programs emphasize the translational research linkage between
basic science and improved health. Biomedical research training programs for diverse students often fail to
emphasize practical development of the leadership skills actually required for successful careers in
biomedical research. The Mayo Clinic Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program (PREP) bridges
these two gaps by preparing learners from underrepresented (UR) groups for successful matriculation and
completion of research-intensive biomedical science PhD programs. During the next funding cycle, we will
maintain the 22-year success of our program while increasing recruitment of UR students, improving
mentorship experiences, and providing leadership skills. Indeed, 22 years of experience have guided the
optimization of these elements.
Specific aims:
Aim 1. Recruit and retain UR learners (nine total per year) into basic science or translational
research programs at Mayo Clinic while achieving a 75% matriculation rate into PhD or MD-PhD
programs. Since its origin in 2006, the Mayo PREP has recruited and trained 63 post-baccalaureate UR
learners. Forty-three (68%) matriculated into competitive PhD or MD-PhD programs. Of those students,
95% successfully completed a doctoral degree or are on track to do so. We will continue to recruit and train
learners through our proven curriculum with its focus on intensive enrichment activities toward individualized
academic and professional development. We will maintain objective program evaluation by leveraging self-
assessment tools and surveys such as the Undergraduate Research Student Self-Assessment. We will use
pre-entrance surveys to identify the needs of each learner and craft an appropriate plan to ensure timely
learner success. We will provide access to tutors and will encourage participation in Mayo Clinic’s
institutional resource groups (MERG) to assist in learner retention. We will facilitate networking by weekly
structured meetings and quarterly meetings in a social setting with graduate students and faculty from UR
groups. We hypothesize that these tactics will continue to be effective in increasing the number of UR
learners entering PhD programs.
Aim 2. Develop a pathway that cultivates successful long-term mentor-mentee relationships to
facilitate successful research careers. Individual development plans (IDPs) have been used to identify
gaps in research experiences and develop strategies for addressing these gaps. However, IDPs can be
inadequate if not accompanied by diligent follow-up with accountab...

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9851524
- **Project number:** 2R25GM075148-14
- **Recipient organization:** MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER
- **Principal Investigator:** Luis Lujan
- **Activity code:** R25 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $129,844
- **Award type:** 2
- **Project period:** 2005-07-01 → 2025-04-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9851524

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9851524, Post-baccalaureate Training in Biomedical Research (2R25GM075148-14). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9851524. Licensed CC0.

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