A program to support underrepresented students in biomedical research careers
Official title: Bridges to the Baccalaureate at Cal State LA
Funded at California State University Los Angeles · NIH-10892922 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This program is designed to help students from East Los Angeles College and Pasadena City College who are underrepresented, disabled, or facing challenges, by giving them hands-on experience in biomedical research and support as they move on to California State University Los Angeles, so they can build their skills and confidence for future PhD studies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California State University Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $284,310 |
| NIH project number | 5T34GM150442-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10892922 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this program are motivated undergraduates from disadvantaged backgrounds who are pursuing careers in biomedical research.
✕Less likely to help
Students who are already enrolled in PhD programs or those not pursuing a career in biomedical research may not benefit from this program.
What this research studies
This program aims to enhance the educational journey of underrepresented, disabled, and disadvantaged undergraduates from East Los Angeles College and Pasadena City College by providing them with opportunities to engage in biomedical research. Students will receive mentorship and training that begins at their community colleges and continues as they transition to California State University Los Angeles, where they will participate in laboratory research and academic programs designed to prepare them for PhD studies. The initiative focuses on fostering creativity and leadership skills, ultimately aiming to increase diversity in the biomedical research field.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly increase the number of underrepresented minorities in biomedical PhD programs and research careers.
How similar studies have gone: Similar initiatives have shown success in increasing diversity and supporting underrepresented students in STEM fields, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
California State University Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tunstad, Linda M. — California State University Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Tunstad, Linda M.
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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.