Hands-on experience in brain and nerve research for high school students

Research Immersion in Brain, Spinal cord (RIBS), & Peripheral nerves for URM High School Students

NIH-funded research Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11003781

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 typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11003781 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this program are under-represented minority high school students interested in science and medicine.

Not a fit: Students who are not part of under-represented minority groups or those who are not in high school may not benefit from this program.

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 performed: 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

Cleveland, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.