Thursday, April 3, 2025
4/3/2025
Raise Awareness In Students Early (RAISE) in Oral Biology Program - PROJECT SUMMARY The primary objective of the Raise Awareness In Students Early (RAISE) in Oral Biology Program is to provide short-term research experiences and training for talented undergraduate students in the area of oral biology. The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) RAISE Program will 1) recruit and engage undergraduate students who demonstrate ambition and determination to pursue an oral biology-related career; 2) provide the knowledge and skills that will prepare students for advanced degree admission and a biomedical career in oral biology, and 3) enhance the research workforce by nurturing the academic and professional growth of students that represent all aspects of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and life experiences. The 10- week program will recruit nine students per year. Special consideration will be given to students from economically and/or socially disadvantaged backgrounds, including underrepresented minority applicants, first- generation students, and students from non-research-intensive South Carolina higher education institutions. Students will conduct a biomedical hypothesis-driven project under the guidance of a faculty mentor whose research program is aligned with the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) scientific priorities. The program will leverage the expertise of MUSC faculty, many of whom are established mentors on our NIDCR T32 Training in Craniofacial and Oral Health Research (T-COHR) grant. Dr. Yilmaz, DDS, PhD and Dr. Westwater, PhD with their complementary backgrounds in academic mentoring bring forth a successfully integrated undergraduate oral biology program encompassing basic science, clinical knowledge, and team-based leadership. In addition to hands-on research training in oral biology, students will receive responsible conduct of research training, professional development, and networking opportunities. Activities will include an authentic research experience; a specialized lecture series; formal and informal discussions on the core principles of rigor and reproducibility; and a journal club focused on the connection between oral health and systemic conditions. Trainees will gain an appreciation for the translational relevance of their studies through interprofessional experiences in a clinical setting. The program will culminate with formal presentation at the MUSC Summer Undergraduate Research Symposium, a one-day conference in which students present their research to their peers, primary mentors, and research team advisors. Students will be encouraged to build both social and academic networks. Each student will be paired via the Big Sister/Brother Program with a student, who will provide professional and social support while on the MUSC campus. After graduating from the RAISE Program, students will be enrolled in the RAISE Alumni Network. Inclusion in this network will facilitate post- program career planning and will increase the likelihood that students will select long-term careers in oral biology- related fields. In turn, we expect our alumni to become part of the research workforce who will focus on improving oral health and well-being for all individuals across the lifespan.
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).