Enhancing diversity in scientific research through hands-on opportunities
Official title: ASPIRE, Advancing Scientific Potential through Inclusive Research Experiences
Funded at VA Boston Health Care System · NIH-11052278 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about giving undergraduate and medical students from underrepresented backgrounds a chance to gain hands-on research experience in science and medicine, with great mentorship and support to help them succeed in their careers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Boston Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 1I01BX006963-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052278 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this program are undergraduate and medical students from underrepresented backgrounds who are interested in pursuing careers in scientific research.
✕Less likely to help
Students who are not from underrepresented backgrounds or those who are not pursuing a career in science may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on expanding a successful Summer Research Program at the VA Boston Healthcare System, aimed at providing undergraduate and medical students from underrepresented groups with hands-on research experiences. The program emphasizes mentorship and aims to enrich the diversity of the scientific workforce by encouraging students early in their academic careers. By addressing the current disparities in STEMM fields, this initiative seeks to foster a more inclusive environment in basic and translational research. Participants will receive competitive financial compensation and support as they explore careers in science and medicine.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase the representation of underrepresented minorities in the scientific workforce, leading to more innovative and diverse research outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Similar initiatives have shown success in enhancing diversity in STEM fields, indicating that this approach is both tested and promising.
Where this research is happening
-
VA Boston Health Care System
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cristofaro, Vivian — VA Boston Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Cristofaro, Vivian
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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.