Saturday, April 19, 2025
4/19/2025
NCCU Duke - Substance Use Research & Education (ND-SURE) - Abstract Representation of minority groups in biomedical research, including research on substance use is low; and individuals who identify as members of underrepresented minority groups (URMs) pursue such careers at far lower rates than expected considering the demographics of the U.S. This project will focus on cultivating the interest of undergraduate students in substance use-related research to increase the pool of diverse applicants pursuing substance use-related research careers. We have established a partnership between Duke University (a private, R1 university) and North Carolina Central University (NCCU; a public HBCU). Our program, entitled NCCU Duke – Substance Use Research & Education (ND-SURE) will provide educational, research training, and intensive mentoring for undergraduates from both institutions. ND-SURE will: 1) Focus entirely on undergraduates; 2) Pair laboratories and an academic course from Duke and NCCU to provide innovative substance use-related academic and research opportunities to URM students from both institutions; 3) Provide intensive mentoring, a seminar series, and a wide range of professional development opportunities (including IDPs); and 4) track the progress of participants as they complete their undergraduate training and move forward into graduate or professional education. A primary goal of the program will be for students from each institution to study and train with students from the other, thereby leveraging the distinct strengths of each university. Aim 1 will promote in-depth understanding of the biomedical, public health, social and cultural impacts of substance use through didactic training in a semester-long course focused on substance use and its various biological, clinical, and social impacts, and engage students with the Research Triangle substance use research community. This Aim will also establish a rich professional network through which ND-SURE participants will acquire specific skills and guidance toward careers related to substance use research. Aim 2 will provide an immersive summer substance use research experience in Duke and NCCU laboratories that includes personalized research mentoring, and both group and individualized professional development education. Aim 3 will provide continuing professional development and mentoring opportunities for participants, and an empirical evaluation component to document participants' progress toward career goals and follow their progress beyond their undergraduate experience. The program will continue to support participants by providing monthly meetings with program mentors throughout the following academic year. In addition, meetings and resources will be provided to support participants' specific research endeavors including advice on poster construction, presentation/publication planning, graduate school/employment applications, and evolving career development considerations. The program will also provide specific preparatory advice and support for participants attending scientific conferences in the academic year following the summer research experience.
HHS’ Tracking Accountability in Government Grants System (TAGGS) website provides access to detailed descriptions of grants, loans, aggregated direct payments and other types of financial assistance awarded by the HHS Operating Divisions (OPDIVs) and the Office of the Secretary Staff Divisions (STAFFDIVs).