Increasing representation in rehabilitation and creative health professions
Official title: CCL-IGNITE (IncreasinG RepresentatioN In RehabilItation and CreaTivE Health Professions Research)
Funded at New York University · NIH-10888506 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about helping students from diverse backgrounds, especially those who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, get better support and opportunities in health careers like physical therapy and art therapy through mentorship and tailored learning experiences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $270,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R25GM154372-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10888506 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include students from underrepresented backgrounds interested in pursuing careers in rehabilitation health professions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already established professionals in rehabilitation health fields or those outside the targeted demographic may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance the representation of underrepresented groups in rehabilitation health professions through a mentorship-based curriculum. It focuses on providing early access to research opportunities and resources for students from diverse backgrounds, particularly those who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). By collaborating with educators and researchers, the program will create culturally relevant educational experiences and support systems to improve academic outcomes and career preparation in fields like physical therapy and art therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more diverse workforce in rehabilitation health professions, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes for underserved communities.
How similar studies have gone: Other research initiatives have successfully increased diversity in healthcare professions through mentorship and tailored educational programs, suggesting a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rao, Smita — New York University
- Study coordinator: Rao, Smita
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.