Supporting under-represented students in biomedical research at the University of Arizona

University of Arizona's Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (IMSD)

NIH-funded research University of Arizona · NIH-11017766

The University of Arizona's program is designed to help under-represented students in biomedical sciences succeed by offering support through classes, mentoring, and professional activities, all aimed at helping them feel confident and connected as they grow into future scientists.

Quick facts

Grant typeTraining grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Arizona NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tucson, United States)
Project IDNIH-11017766 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

The University of Arizona's Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (IMSD) aims to enhance the academic and professional development of under-represented students in biomedical sciences. This program provides a structured support system through cohort-based courses, individualized mentoring, and professional development activities. Trainees will engage in a personalized academic and research plan, benefiting from a tiered mentoring system that includes faculty, peer mentors, and program staff. The initiative focuses on building a sense of belonging and self-efficacy among participants, fostering their growth as future scientists.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this program are under-represented students in biomedical sciences, particularly those from American Indian, Alaska Native, and Hispanic backgrounds.

Not a fit: Students who do not identify as under-represented in the biomedical field may not receive direct benefits from this program.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could empower under-represented students to thrive in biomedical research careers, ultimately leading to a more diverse scientific community.

How similar studies have performed: Similar initiatives at other institutions have shown success in enhancing diversity and support for under-represented students in STEM fields.

Where this research is happening

Tucson, 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.
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.