Enhancing neuroscience opportunities for underrepresented middle school students
Official title: Positive STEM Experiences for Underrepresented and Rural 6-12th Graders: A Novel Approach to Pre-Collegiate Neuroscience using a Train-the-Trainer Model, Summer Immersion, and Sustained Mentorship
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-10911983 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about helping middle school students from rural and underrepresented backgrounds discover the exciting world of neuroscience through fun programs and mentorship, so they can become the next generation of scientists.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $266,923 |
| NIH project number | 5R25GM150174-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10911983 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this program are underrepresented and rural middle school students in grades 6-8 who are interested in science.
✕Less likely to help
Students outside of the 6th to 8th grade range or those not from underrepresented backgrounds may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to create a supportive environment for underrepresented and rural 6th to 8th graders to explore neuroscience. It utilizes a train-the-trainer model, summer immersion programs, and sustained mentorship to engage students in active learning. By addressing barriers to participation in neuroscience, the program seeks to foster a diverse pool of future scientists. Students will benefit from a novel curriculum designed to enhance their understanding and interest in neuroscience.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could empower underrepresented youth to pursue careers in neuroscience and related fields.
How similar studies have gone: Previous initiatives targeting underrepresented youth in STEM have shown positive outcomes, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Randolph, Anita Christine — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Randolph, Anita Christine
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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.