Increasing underrepresented scientists in cancer research: the UCSD CURE program.

Area of Science:

• Cancer Research
• Health Disparities
• Medical Education

Background:

• Underrepresented students face barriers in pursuing STEM careers.
• A need exists to increase diversity in cancer research and care.
• The Moores UCSD Cancer Center identified a need for targeted student programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the Continuing Umbrella of Research Experiences (CURE) program.
• To assess the program's impact on underrepresented students' persistence in science.
• To determine the program's success in preparing students for graduate and health professional schools.

Main Methods:

• The CURE program provided 8 weeks of intensive laboratory and classroom training.
• Students participated in mentored research experiences.
• Student outcomes were tracked for persistence in science and matriculation to further studies.

Main Results:

• 91% of CURE students persisted in science careers after one year.
• 56 out of 63 eligible students graduated college.
• 98% of graduates were science majors, with 61% matriculating to graduate or health professional schools.

Conclusions:

• The CURE program effectively increases the number of underrepresented students in cancer research and care.
• The program demonstrates significant success in promoting long-term scientific careers.
• This model can be replicated to foster diversity in biomedical research fields.