Creating a diverse research workforce in Veterans Affairs
Official title: Promoting a Diverse VA Research Workforce along the Translational Research Continuum
Funded at Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center · NIH-11052053 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a summer program for college students from diverse backgrounds to gain hands-on research experience and mentorship, helping them learn how scientific discoveries can improve health for people, especially Veterans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 1I01BX006979-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052053 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this program are underrepresented college students interested in pursuing careers in health-related research.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not college students or who do not belong to underrepresented groups may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a summer research program aimed at underrepresented college students, providing them with mentorship, peer networks, and hands-on research experience. The program emphasizes the importance of translational research, which seeks to turn scientific discoveries into practical applications that can benefit patients, particularly Veterans. Students will engage in various phases of research, from basic laboratory work to clinical trials and public health initiatives, allowing them to see the real-world impact of their contributions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the diversity of the scientific workforce, leading to improved health outcomes for Veterans and better representation in research.
How similar studies have gone: Similar initiatives have shown success in increasing diversity in research fields and improving health outcomes through targeted training programs.
Where this research is happening
-
Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hundt, Natalie E — Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Hundt, Natalie E
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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.