NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Improving neuroscience education and research for Native American communities

Official title: Neuroscience Diversity to Elevate Education and Research Development

Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-10933145 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working to help more Native Americans enter the field of neuroscience by breaking down cultural and educational barriers, so they can become trusted health professionals and researchers who understand their communities better, ultimately aiming to improve brain health for Native American populations.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Arizona
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tucson, United States)
Project startSeptember 6, 2024
Project endAugust 31, 2029
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$269,196
NIH project number1R25NS138018-01
Project IDNIH-10933145 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are Native American individuals interested in pursuing careers in neuroscience or related STEM fields.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not identify as Native American or are not interested in STEM careers may not receive direct benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance the representation of Native Americans in the STEM workforce, particularly in neuroscience, by addressing cultural and educational barriers. It focuses on developing health professionals and researchers who are culturally competent and trusted within their communities. The program recognizes the unique philosophical perspectives of Native American students and seeks to integrate these perspectives into neuroscience education. By fostering a more inclusive environment, the research aims to improve health outcomes related to brain health in Native American populations.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes and increased representation of Native Americans in neuroscience and related fields.

How similar studies have gone: While there have been efforts to improve diversity in STEM, this approach is novel in its focus on integrating Native American cultural perspectives into neuroscience education.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Arizona
    Tucson, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Rodgers, Kathleen E. — University of Arizona
  • Study coordinator: Rodgers, Kathleen E.

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.