Summer program for diverse undergraduate students to gain research experience in health systems.
Official title: Summer VA CINCCH-Academic (VACA) Research Program
Funded at Edward Hines Jr VA Hospital · NIH-11052101 · Data updated 2026-11-12
The Summer VA CINCCH-Academic Program gives undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in health research while working closely with mentors, helping to inspire their future careers in science.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Edward Hines Jr VA Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hines, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 1I01BX006975-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052101 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this program are undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds, particularly those who are underrepresented in the scientific community.
✕Less likely to help
Students who are not pursuing a career in scientific research or who do not meet the diversity criteria may not benefit from this program.
What this research studies
The Summer VA CINCCH-Academic (VACA) Program offers undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds the chance to engage in hands-on research in health systems research and team-based science. This 8-week program is designed to address the underrepresentation of minorities in scientific fields by providing tailored research experiences that align with students' interests. Participants will work closely with mentors on ongoing research projects, enhancing their skills and knowledge in a supportive environment. The program aims to foster career aspirations in scientific research among minority students.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly increase the representation of minority students in scientific research careers.
How similar studies have gone: Similar programs aimed at increasing diversity in STEM fields have shown success in enhancing career pathways for underrepresented groups.
Where this research is happening
-
Edward Hines Jr VA Hospital
Hines, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Evans, Charlesnika T — Edward Hines Jr VA Hospital
- Study coordinator: Evans, Charlesnika T
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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.