The University of Mississippi was awarded a $192,047 Project Grant from the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (CFDA 93.286 - Discovery and Applied Research for Technological Innovations to Improve Human Health) to support the "Mississippi Esteemed Scholars Program." This 4-year program is designed to promote equitable outcomes for underrepresented undergraduate students in bioengineering and STEM fields. The key products and services to be delivered include:
A summer bridge program to transition high school students into the university and provide hands-on training in biomedical engineering foundations, lab safety, and research.
Academic-year mentorship, individual development plans, and supplemental computer programming training to support students' STEM career trajectories.
Opportunities for students to conduct research in faculty laboratories across biomedical engineering, bioimaging, biology, chemistry, and other relevant fields.
Funding for students to conduct research at external laboratories during their second summer.
Training and support for students to present their research at local and regional conferences.
Assistance for students to transition into an honors program for their final two undergraduate years to prepare for graduate school in STEM fields.
The goal of the program is to increase the recruitment, retention, and research success of underrepresented students, ultimately diversifying the future biomedical workforce.