AGTC: Attaining Genomics Talent Cloud through Undergraduate Research Education

ABSTRACT An inclusive and diverse workforce in genomics is much needed as it could alleviate disparity in genomics data inclusion and genomics-enabled medicine. However, recruitment and retention of underrepresented minority in genomics research and the biomedicine workforce are confronted by special challenges from lack of exposure, opportunities, and insufficient resources. In addition,

undergraduate ethnic minorities and disadvantaged groups face extra barriers that prevent them entering this fast-growing, deep-reaching biomedical field. This AGTC (Attaining Genomics Talent Cloud) through Undergraduate Research Experience Program addresses the barriers and challenges to a more diverse workforce by capitalizing on the long-term collaboration and geographic proximity of two higher

education institutions: Tennessee State University (a minority serving institution) and Vanderbilt University Medical Center (a top tier research intensive institution), providing two-year-long intensive basic training with intermingled research activities in genetics and genomics, and a full summer (10

week) of mentored research experience. Undergraduate student participants will be recruited from Tennessee State University, in four cohorts, and they will be immersed in a genomic sciences education and research environment, trained through a focused curriculum, and mentored by successful researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Tennessee State University, surrounded by peer

mentors and role models. The AGTC Program uses established supporting networks and high impact, best practice to ensure each minoritized participant’s success and persistence in genomics and pursuit of biomedical career.