Funded by a grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) Graduate Research Training Initiative for Student Enhancement (G-RISE), the G-RISE program at Old Dominion University (ODU) welcomed its inaugural cohort in May 2021. This program is specifically tailored to enhance diversity among students pursuing Ph.D. degrees in various biomedical research disciplines at ODU, with the aim of bolstering the representation of underrepresented groups in the biomedical research workforce. By providing opportunities for underrepresented students to contribute to cutting-edge research, the G-RISE program empowers them to shape the future of biomedical research.
Merit-based scholarships are awarded to eligible students as part of the G-RISE program. Participants benefit from a comprehensive array of activities designed to enrich their academic and professional journey. These include a six-week summer doctoral bridge program, internships at biotechnology firms and government laboratories, as well as academic and social workshops, all of which contribute to an exceptional learning experience.
At ODU, we believe in nurturing diverse talents and fostering a culture where every individual can thrive. Our vision for success knows no bounds, offering pathways to doctoral degrees in a range of disciplines, including Biological Sciences, Chemistry & Biochemistry, Computer Science, Community & Environmental Health, Electrical & Computer Engineering (Biomedical Engineering), and Medical Diagnostic & Translational Sciences.
Apply for G-RISE
G-Rise offers financial, academic, professional and career development opportunities. Applications are due Dec. 1 for the following academic year.
Program Benefits
The G-RISE program at ODU prioritizes the needs of its Ph.D. students, offering comprehensive academic, professional, and career development opportunities in the biomedical research field. Advantages include:
- 12-month stipends beginning at $28,224
- Tuition remission
- Health insurance coverage
- Summer Doctoral Bridge Program
- Support for academic and career growth
- Paid summer co-op or internship opportunities
- Travel funding for attendance at national conferences
- Engaging in K-12 and community outreach initiatives
- Annual Retreat participation
Highlight Activities
G-RISE Scholars embark on their doctoral journey by participating in a compulsory six-week summer doctoral bridge program, scheduled from June to July. This program is designed to facilitate a smooth transition into the doctoral degree program, equipping scholars with essential foundational knowledge and research skills. Additionally, it fosters the development of support networks and cultivates a robust scholarly community.
The G-RISE program at ODU actively promotes engagement in community outreach and mentoring endeavors throughout the academic year. These opportunities include:
- K-12 Outreach: Scholars are encouraged to participate in outreach activities aimed at local middle and high schools through initiatives like the Hampton Roads - STEM Summer Institute (HR-SSI).
- Community Building: Involvement in local and international aid programs fosters community building and contributes to societal betterment.
- BiG-RiSE Program: Scholars have the chance to engage with the BiG-RiSE Program, which likely focuses on fostering collaboration and networking among scholars within the program.
- Panel Discussions: Opportunities to participate in panel discussions with U-RISE undergraduates provide valuable mentoring experiences and facilitate knowledge sharing within the academic community.
The Annual Retreat serves as a unifying event, bringing together both new G-RISE Scholars who have completed the Summer Bridge Program and more seasoned scholars actively engaged in dissertation projects. Its primary goal is to cultivate a sense of community and camaraderie among scholars, faculty, and staff.
Key components of the annual retreat include:
- Organized Workshops and Panel Discussions: These sessions cover topics such as Diversity in Biomedical Research and challenges faced in retaining minority graduate students.
- Annual Review of the G-RISE Program: Scholars can provide feedback and insights on the G-RISE program's effectiveness.
- Research Presentations: Scholars showcase their research projects, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
- Excursion Trips: These outings are designed to foster teamwork and strengthen bonds between G-RISE staff, faculty, and students, contributing to a supportive and cohesive community.
G-RISE Scholars embark on their doctoral journey by participating in a compulsory six-week summer doctoral bridge program, scheduled from June to July. This program is designed to facilitate a smooth transition into the doctoral degree program, equipping scholars with essential foundational knowledge and research skills. Additionally, it fosters the development of support networks and cultivates a robust scholarly community.
The G-RISE program at ODU actively promotes engagement in community outreach and mentoring endeavors throughout the academic year. These opportunities include:
- K-12 Outreach: Scholars are encouraged to participate in outreach activities aimed at local middle and high schools through initiatives like the Hampton Roads - STEM Summer Institute (HR-SSI).
- Community Building: Involvement in local and international aid programs fosters community building and contributes to societal betterment.
- BiG-RiSE Program: Scholars have the chance to engage with the BiG-RiSE Program, which likely focuses on fostering collaboration and networking among scholars within the program.
- Panel Discussions: Opportunities to participate in panel discussions with U-RISE undergraduates provide valuable mentoring experiences and facilitate knowledge sharing within the academic community.
The Annual Retreat serves as a unifying event, bringing together both new G-RISE Scholars who have completed the Summer Bridge Program and more seasoned scholars actively engaged in dissertation projects. Its primary goal is to cultivate a sense of community and camaraderie among scholars, faculty, and staff.
Key components of the annual retreat include:
- Organized Workshops and Panel Discussions: These sessions cover topics such as Diversity in Biomedical Research and challenges faced in retaining minority graduate students.
- Annual Review of the G-RISE Program: Scholars can provide feedback and insights on the G-RISE program's effectiveness.
- Research Presentations: Scholars showcase their research projects, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
- Excursion Trips: These outings are designed to foster teamwork and strengthen bonds between G-RISE staff, faculty, and students, contributing to a supportive and cohesive community.
Get started
The G-RISE program at ODU welcomes applications from all U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are committed to advancing diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. Specifically targeting underrepresented students pursuing Ph.D. degrees in biomedical research, the program encourages applicants from various backgrounds, including:
- Minorities (including Blacks or African Americans, Hispanics or Latinos, American Indians or Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and other Pacific Islanders)
- Persons with Disabilities
Prospective trainees must apply to one of the participating Ph.D. programs and meet the following criteria:
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to pursuing a doctoral degree in biomedical research
- Show dedication to advancing underrepresented groups in biomedical research
- Express a commitment to a career in the biomedical workforce
- Successfully complete an interview demonstrating passion for a career in biomedical research
- Exhibit a track record of community service
Additionally, all students must have completed at least general biology or chemistry or be prepared to do so before beginning the summer bridge program. During their tenure in the G-RISE fellowship, students are not permitted to hold any other employment, whether on or off-campus, or receive other federally funded fellowships.
Preview Day for Fall 2024 will be held as a Zoom event. The application deadline is set for December 1, 2024.
Prospective students interested in applying should complete the following steps:
1. Submit the G-RISE Supplemental Application Form.
2. Inform Program staff of their intention to apply and the status of their application.
3. Prepare a 2-page letter of intent detailing their research interests, relevant experience, and proposed research rotations.
4. Provide a writing sample, such as a technical report or publication.
5. Secure two letters of support from faculty members.
Following the application deadline, a Selection Review Committee Meeting will convene starting in January 2025.
Decisions on acceptance will be mailed out in mid-March, allowing prospective scholars ample time to plan their academic future.
The G-RISE program at ODU welcomes applications from all U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are committed to advancing diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. Specifically targeting underrepresented students pursuing Ph.D. degrees in biomedical research, the program encourages applicants from various backgrounds, including:
- Minorities (including Blacks or African Americans, Hispanics or Latinos, American Indians or Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and other Pacific Islanders)
- Persons with Disabilities
Prospective trainees must apply to one of the participating Ph.D. programs and meet the following criteria:
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to pursuing a doctoral degree in biomedical research
- Show dedication to advancing underrepresented groups in biomedical research
- Express a commitment to a career in the biomedical workforce
- Successfully complete an interview demonstrating passion for a career in biomedical research
- Exhibit a track record of community service
Additionally, all students must have completed at least general biology or chemistry or be prepared to do so before beginning the summer bridge program. During their tenure in the G-RISE fellowship, students are not permitted to hold any other employment, whether on or off-campus, or receive other federally funded fellowships.
Preview Day for Fall 2024 will be held as a Zoom event. The application deadline is set for December 1, 2024.
Prospective students interested in applying should complete the following steps:
1. Submit the G-RISE Supplemental Application Form.
2. Inform Program staff of their intention to apply and the status of their application.
3. Prepare a 2-page letter of intent detailing their research interests, relevant experience, and proposed research rotations.
4. Provide a writing sample, such as a technical report or publication.
5. Secure two letters of support from faculty members.
Following the application deadline, a Selection Review Committee Meeting will convene starting in January 2025.
Decisions on acceptance will be mailed out in mid-March, allowing prospective scholars ample time to plan their academic future.
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