Why a Diverse Biomedical Workforce is Important
Diverse perspectives in biomedical and behavioral research lead to greater innovation and greater recognition of issues that continue to threaten the health, well-being, and inclusion of underrepresented communities. Therefore increasing the diversity of biomedical and behavioral research scientists increases our potential to address the most urgent public health challenges, and is critical to the full realization of our national research goals.
The Goals of the MARC GatorSTAR Program
MARC GatorSTAR program is designed to enhance the academic preparation and research skills training of underrepresented minority students at UF, place them in mentored research environments with dynamic, experienced faculty preceptors, support the students through to their graduation with a BS degree in a STEM, biomedical, or behavioral science-related discipline, and promote their continuation to a successful career as a research scientist. The MARC GatorSTAR program is not intended to support students who plan to pursue only a professional degree (such as MD, DO, DDS, DMD, or DVM), although students who plan to earn a PhD degree in combination with a professional degree will be considered.
Participation in Undergraduate Research is Essential
Participation in research as an undergraduate increases the chances of pursuing graduate study in science fields, and increases retention and academic achievement among underrepresented students. The University of Florida is a major biomedical research institution, with tremendous opportunities for participation of undergraduates in world-class biomedical and behavioral research. The MARC GatorSTAR program plays an important role at UF in increasing the number of underrepresented minority students who graduate and enter doctoral programs in biomedical and behavioral science disciplines
The MARC Program
Students who are accepted into the MARC program become GatorSTAR scholars for their junior and/or senior years, during which they receive 60% of their tuition, a stipend of approximately $1,100 per month and travel support. Scholars participate in focused programs to enhance their academic preparation and research skills, and participate in intensive research experiences with UF faculty mentors and faculty mentors at our partner institutions.