MARC U*STAR

We recruit rising juniors who've indicated an interest in biomedical or behavioral sciences research and a determination to pursue a Ph.D.

We provide activities that contribute to a culture of inquiry in science and technology. The program provides personal mentoring and increased exposure to good biomedical science and the thrill of research. In essence, we present promising fellows with a career option in biomedical research that they may never have otherwise considered. In addition, these students are provided with the skills and guidance to be successful in biomedical research.

2022-2024 application cycle is open! Click here to apply.

Overview

To meet our goal of encouraging underrepresented groups to continue on to successful biomedical or behavioral science research careers, we provide a focused initiative that motivates promising students to choose a biomedical or behavioral science career. This goal is important because many students do not know what biomedical research is or how exciting and rewarding it can be.

About
We offer our trainees unique opportunities including:
- Research with faculty on campus
- Summer research internships
- Publication of their research findings in scientific journals
- Public speaking opportunities, including local and national forums for scientific research presentations
- Preparation for graduate school or post-baccalaureate programs
- Thesis writing guidance
Benefits
Participants are supported in their scientific careers by:
- Advising
- Access to graduate school recruiters
- Monthly stipend
- Tuition waiver
- Funded travel to national scientific meetings
- Summer research opportunities
- Work in research laboratories
- Participation in our Annual Mini-Symposium
- Participation in Special Skills Workshops
Eligibility
Candidates must:
- Possess Underrepresented Minority Status (as defined by the National Science Foundation)
- Be starting junior year (apply spring of sophomore year) OR have two years until graduation (completed approximately 60-65 credits)
- Have a GPA of 3.3 or higher
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Be enrolled full time at FIU in the natural sciences, physical sciences or behavioral psychology
- Have a strong desire to pursue a career in biomedical or behavioral sciences research (PhD)
- Underrepresented students, military veterans, and students with disabilities are encouraged to apply
Participating students must:
- Be committed to the program for two years
- Be enrolled full time during Fall/Spring Semesters
- Attend at least one Summer Research Experience
Apply
Applicants should complete the online application (available here).
All materials must be received by April 1.

Fellows & Mentors

We provide access to personal mentoring and increased exposure to good biomedical science and the thrill of research. Our fellows work with their faculty mentors to build the skills needed to succeed in biomedical research and explore their career options.

Events

Upcoming events will be posted here.

Throughout our program, students - particularly those from underrepresented groups - have the chance to hone their skills and broaden their network.

MARC U*STAR and QBIC hosted their Mini-Symposium on Oct. 11, 2019, with students presenting research across STEM disciplines. Learn about the Mini-Symposium presenters

Other workshop and event topics include:

Preparation for Graduate School
- Information sessions with various representatives from graduate programs across the nation
Study Skills and Resources
Preparing Scientific Presentations
Database & Library Searches
Responsible Conduct of Research
Lab Safety Certification
- EPA: Hazardous Waste Handling
- Laboratory Hazard Awareness
- HazCom: In Sync with GHS
- Fire Safety
- Personal Protective Equipment
Scientific Concept Mapping
Communication Skills

Student Success

MARC U*STAR alumna Janiel Ahkin Chin Tai '16 is a PhD student in the Purdue University Life Science program, studying toxicology. She worked as a remote intern with PepsiCo during the COVID-19 pandemic and will be joining the company as a senior scientist.

Read Janiel's Story