The Howard University Expanding Research in Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program (HU-ERA-PREP) - The Howard University-Enhancing Research in Alzheimer’s disease (HU-ERA) program is a two-year postbaccalaureate research training initiative designed to prepare recent college graduates for successful entry into advanced research careers in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias (ADRD). The program leverages the established research infrastructure at Howard University, including related STEM and neuroscience-focused initiatives. HU-ERA Scholars will engage in full-time mentored research and professional development activities to gain expertise relevant to ADRD-focused biomedical research, including critical thinking, ethical scientific determinations, quantitative and analytical assessments, and science communication to cultivate trainees’ self-efficacy as proficient biomedical researchers. The main training component is full-time, intensive biomedical research work in an ADRD-focused laboratory, guided by a dedicated mentor. Additional critical training components include: an Aging Brain course; an AD/ADAR seminar series; training on responsible conduct of research and research ethics; workshops on various research-related topics including data interpretation, rigor, and reproducibility; and other professional skill-building activities. Host research mentors and participating faculty of the HU-ERA program have rigorous neuroscience research programs with strong records of research productivity, trainee development and mentorship. Mentors are aligned with the HU-ERA program’s mission to develop the ADRD biomedical research workforce. Mentee-mentor pairings are made based on research interest and prior experience. At completion of the 2-year research training program, HU-ERA scholars will be uniquely and competitively prepared to transition into research-focused advanced degree programs or competitive private-sector research careers in ADRD-related disciplines. A set of well-defined professional development activities will be implemented to facilitate the transition of HU-ERA scholars into high-level biomedical science research careers including workshops on resume/CV building, scientific presentation skills, graduate school funding, and interview skills. HU-ERA scholars will also have access to GRE & MCAT review courses sponsored by Howard University. All elements of the HU-ERA program will be assessed by internal and external evaluators at multiple, specific time points with the guidance of a professional evaluator. Overall program achievements will be determined by measures of matriculation of scholars into PhD and/or MD programs within institutions having strong AD/ADRD research programs, or attainment of ADRD-research positions within the private sector. Success ultimately will be demonstrated by scholars’ completion of PhD or MD programs, and their subsequent contributions as ADRD biomedical scientists to the understanding and development of therapeutic strategies for ADRD.
