A program to support undergraduate students in physiology research
Summer Physiology Undergraduate Researcher (SPUR) Program
The Summer Physiology Undergraduate Researcher (SPUR) Program at the University of Texas Health San Antonio is a friendly opportunity for underrepresented minority college students to gain hands-on experience in lab research, learn important skills, and build confidence for future careers in biomedical sciences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10989891 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The Summer Physiology Undergraduate Researcher (SPUR) Program at the University of Texas Health San Antonio aims to recruit underrepresented minority (URM) undergraduates for hands-on laboratory research experiences. Participants will learn advanced research techniques, enhance their scientific communication skills, and understand the ethical conduct of research. This program specifically targets students entering their junior and senior years, providing them with the necessary tools and confidence to pursue careers in biomedical sciences. Collaborations with local minority-serving institutions help to ensure a diverse applicant pool.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this program are undergraduate students, particularly those from underrepresented minority backgrounds, who are entering their junior or senior years.
Not a fit: Students who are not pursuing a degree in a relevant scientific field or who are not in their junior or senior undergraduate years may not benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly increase the representation of underrepresented minorities in the biomedical research workforce.
How similar studies have performed: Similar programs have shown success in increasing diversity in the biomedical field, making this approach both tested and promising.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bhat, Manzoor a. — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Bhat, Manzoor a.
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 below.