Hands-on experience in brain and nerve research for high school students
Official title: Research Immersion in Brain, Spinal cord (RIBS), & Peripheral nerves for URM High School Students
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11003781 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This program invites high school students from under-represented backgrounds to explore brain and nerve disorders through hands-on research and fun learning activities, all while being mentored by medical students at Case Western Reserve University.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | December 21, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $135,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R25NS135590-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11003781 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this program are under-represented minority high school students interested in science and medicine.
✕Less likely to help
Students who are not part of under-represented minority groups or those who are not in high school may not benefit from this program.
What this research studies
This program offers under-represented minority high school students the chance to engage in hands-on research related to brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerve disorders. Students will participate in educational sessions that cover the structure and function of these neurological systems, utilizing advanced technologies like HoloLens and 3D models for interactive learning. They will also be paired with research laboratories at Case Western Reserve University for an immersive 8-week experience, guided by near-peer mentors who are medical students. The goal is to inspire and motivate students while increasing their awareness of neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research program could empower under-represented minority students with knowledge and skills in neuroscience, potentially leading to increased interest in medical and scientific careers.
How similar studies have gone: Similar educational immersion programs have shown success in increasing student engagement and interest in STEM fields, making this approach promising.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singh, Neena — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Singh, Neena
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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.