A summer program to engage students in biomedical research
Official title: Columbia VA Summer Research Program
Funded at Veterans Health Administration · NIH-11050619 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This program is giving high school and college students in South Carolina a chance to dive into biomedical research for eight weeks, focusing on health issues that impact veterans and underrepresented groups, while also inspiring younger students to explore careers in this field.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 1I01BX006994-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11050619 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this program are high school and undergraduate students interested in pursuing careers in biomedical research, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.
✕Less likely to help
Students who are not interested in biomedical research or who do not meet the age and educational requirements may not benefit from this program.
What this research studies
This program aims to provide high school and undergraduate students in South Carolina with hands-on experience in biomedical research, particularly focusing on conditions that disproportionately affect veterans and underrepresented minorities. Participants will engage in full-time research activities over an eight-week period, gaining exposure to various health issues such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. The program also includes the development of a high school research curriculum to inspire younger students and foster interest in biomedical careers. By creating a diverse and inclusive environment, the program seeks to build a stronger biomedical workforce in the region.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could enhance the skills and career prospects of students while addressing critical health disparities in the veteran population.
How similar studies have gone: Previous iterations of this program have shown success in engaging students and fostering interest in biomedical careers, indicating a positive track record.
Where this research is happening
-
Veterans Health Administration
Columbia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ryan, Michael — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Ryan, Michael
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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.