Improving diversity in translational science training for underrepresented groups
Official title: VA GENIUS: Growing Excellence in Next-generation Investigators Undertaking Translational Science
Funded at VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System · NIH-11051290 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about helping people from diverse backgrounds, like racial and ethnic minorities, women, LGBTQ+ folks, and veterans, get involved in science and technology careers by offering hands-on learning and mentorship to break down the barriers they face.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | October 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 1I01BX006993-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051290 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM, such as racial/ethnic minorities, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and those from rural or economically disadvantaged areas.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify with any of the underrepresented groups targeted by this initiative may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance the participation of underrepresented groups, including racial/ethnic minorities, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and veterans, in the field of translational science. It focuses on addressing the structural barriers that prevent these individuals from pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The program will provide experiential learning opportunities and mentorship to foster career aspirations and improve diversity in scientific research. By collaborating with various centers of excellence, the initiative seeks to create a more inclusive environment in scientific training and career development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more diverse and innovative workforce in translational science, ultimately improving health outcomes for all patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous initiatives aimed at increasing diversity in STEM fields have shown positive outcomes, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hack, Samantha — VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Hack, Samantha
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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.