U-Rise at Rowan University

As the 4th-fastest-growing research institution in the U.S., with two medical schools and heavy recent investment in biomedical research infrastructure and personnel, Rowan University is an emerging leader in biomedical innovation in the Mid-Atlantic region. Despite this growth, Rowan maintains a strong commitment to

student-centered, experiential undergraduate education. This unique combination makes Rowan University an optimal environment for a new diversity-enhancing NIH U-RISE training program. U-RISE@Rowan will provide comprehensive education and training to broadly educate and engage underrepresented (UR) students in

biomedical research opportunities (Aim 1), to build a community of research-driven UR students with the skills for success in biomedical careers (Aim 2), and to generate a pipeline of highly-qualified UR graduates that succeed in doctoral-level biomedical careers (Aim 3). The training program will include four stages: RISE &

See; RISE & Strive; RISE & Shine; and RISE & Soar. RISE & See will broadly educate and engage first-year UR students in biomedical research. Highly-motivated candidates will apply for one of five U-RISE@Rowan Fellowships. RISE & Strive will build sophomores’ scientific literacy and practical skills through research

experience, foundational coursework, and extracurricular training. RISE & Shine will provide junior trainees with research-focused coursework, intensive research training, and workshops to build their professional skills. RISE & Soar will combine external summer research at a partner R1 institution, a capstone thesis, guided

application to Ph.D. programs, and training in scientific citizenship that includes downward outreach by senior trainees to enhance recruitment of UR students interested in STEM careers. All stages of the program include co-curricular training that will be accessible to all UR STEM students interested in biomedical research, with

the goal of broadly enhancing UR engagement in undergraduate research and pursuit of biomedical research careers. U-RISE@Rowan will leverage the diversity and unique undergraduate-driven, research-focused environment of Rowan to create a sustainable, scalable program that will yield long-term, far-reaching impact

on the diversity of the biomedical doctorate research community.