A program to support the development of PhD students in biomedical and behavioral sciences.
Official title: The University of Chicago Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (IMSD)
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11011426 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about helping new PhD students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, get the support and training they need to succeed in their research and studies in the biomedical and behavioral sciences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Training grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $517,265 |
| NIH project number | 5T32GM152395-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011426 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this program are newly admitted PhD graduate students, especially those from underrepresented groups in the field.
✕Less likely to help
Students who are not pursuing a PhD in biomedical or behavioral sciences may not benefit from this program.
What this research studies
The University of Chicago Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (IMSD) offers tailored research training and educational opportunities for newly admitted PhD students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds in the biomedical and behavioral sciences. The program includes the creation of an Individual Development Plan (IDP) to guide students through their graduate education, along with a Summer Research Program to help them acclimate to the academic environment. Students benefit from interactive learning modules and mentoring from peers and faculty, which are designed to enhance their scientific and leadership skills throughout their studies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the educational and professional outcomes for PhD students in the biomedical and behavioral sciences.
How similar studies have gone: Similar initiatives have shown success in enhancing the academic and professional development of underrepresented students in various fields.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schwartz, Nancy B — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Schwartz, Nancy B
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.