# Research Initiative for Scientific Enhancement

> **NIH NIH R25** · CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY LOS ANGELES · 2020 · $1,650,342

## Abstract

We propose a RISE project that is reverse-engineered from the characteristics of highly
successful biomedical science PhD students at major research universities. We have learned
much through our prior efforts, and have synthesized from our accomplishments and insights a
training program for talented undergraduate and MS students that will develop their qualities,
achievements, and habits necessary for success in PhD programs, postdoctoral appointments,
and into high profile biomedical and behavioral research careers. Cal State LA is a vibrant
institution that plays an important role in the education of minority students. Noteworthy
achievements include:
· In its most recent ranking (2015), the NSF lists Cal State LA as the number one
 baccalaureate institution of origin of Hispanic science PhDs, and number one in Latina
 science PhDs, among all BS and MS institutions in the continental United States. RISE has
 been a major contributor to this distinction.
· It's research training programs in preparation for PhD study, including RISE, were
 designated by the Obama White House in September 2015 as a Bright Spot in Hispanic
 STEM Education.
 The proposed RISE renewal will train 30 MS and 20 undergraduate scholars annually.
Innovations of this proposal include: recognizing the MS-to-PhD pathway is an underutilized tool
for expanding the pool of PhD scholars; formulating questions as a core research skill; creating
an umbrella organization to centralize student development programs with common missions to
facilitate cross-pollination of good ideas, and the use of writing as a critical thinking exercise.
We look forward to a continued role in training American PhD scientists that contribute to the
advancement of biomedical research.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9959418
- **Project number:** 5R25GM061331-21
- **Recipient organization:** CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY LOS ANGELES
- **Principal Investigator:** KRISHNA L FOSTER
- **Activity code:** R25 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $1,650,342
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2000-07-01 → 2022-03-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9959418

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9959418, Research Initiative for Scientific Enhancement (5R25GM061331-21). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9959418. Licensed CC0.

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