AGTC: Attaining Genomics Talent Cloud through Undergraduate Research Education - A well-developed workforce with a solid foundation in genomic research is crucial for advancing genomic-enabled technology, medicine, and the economy. However, recruiting and retaining undergraduates in genomic research for the biomedicine workforce face unique challenges, including a lack of exposure, limited opportunities, and insufficient resources at many higher education institutions. More importantly, undergraduates from ethnic minority backgrounds and disadvantaged groups face additional socio-economic barriers that prevent them entering this fast-growing, rapidly-expanding biomedical field. The AGTC (Attaining Genomics Talent Cloud) through Undergraduate Research Experience Program addresses the barriers and challenges to increase the talent pool for the workforce by capitalizing on the long-term collaboration and geographic proximity of two higher education institutions: Tennessee State University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center (a top tier R1 research intensive institution). This program will offer a two-year intensive training in genetics and genomics, integrated with ongoing research activities, along with a full 10-week summer mentored research experience. Undergraduate student participants will be recruited from Tennessee State University in four cohorts and immersed in a genomic sciences education and research environment. They will receive advanced training through a focused curriculum, an intensive genomics boot camp, and ongoing mentorship from accomplished researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Tennessee State University, supported by peer mentors and role models. The AGTC program leverages established support networks and proven best practices to ensure each participant's success and persistence in genomics, as well as their continued pursuit of a biomedical career.
