Training grants are an essential component of fostering research, education, and professional development for scientific pathways. They help support students through career development, collaboration and specialized training.
MARC 2024 Cohort
The UAB Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC) Program is a NIH T34 training program for students pursing a Ph.D. in biomedical research.
The program is led by Cristin Gavin, Ph.D., associate professor and vice chair for education in the Department of Neurobiology, and Michelle Gray, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Neurology. They are supported by associate directors Will Geisler, M.D., and Nathan Erdmann, M.D., Ph.D.
MARC Scholar
In 2024, four undergraduate students were accepted into the program and matched with a UAB faculty member who mentors and provides hands on experience in research labs. Students are provided with a living stipend and scholarship to support their research and academic pursuits.
The program curriculum is tailored to each student’s needs and addresses objectives such as:
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Critical thinking
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Quantitative skills development
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Scientific writing
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Presentation skills
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Research ethics
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Networking
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Career readiness
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Preparation for graduate school
Students engage in workshops, seminars and other training opportunities that aims to advance the skills needed for scientific communication and career development. Travel opportunities are also provided as a way for students to meet and learn from scientist across the country. 
Kyleigh Castillo
Kyleigh Castillo, an undergraduate chemistry major interested in genetics and genomic sciences, is entering her first term as a MARC scholar. When asked which aspects she was most excited about, she stated, “I am most excited about the personalized preparation this program provides. I am excited to work with my PI, David Schneider, Ph.D., and my bench mentor, Stephanie Cooper, Ph.D., to develop skills I will need for graduate school such as critical thinking and scientific writing.”
“Not only will my mentorship in the lab be personalized, but mentorship from the MARC program coordinators will also be personalized to my needs. It feels great to have a group of people to support me on my journey to becoming a scientist.”
Mayowa Ayileka Mayowa Ayileka, an undergraduate bioinformatics and data science student, is another MARC scholar who is looking forward to the valuable mentorship and support from faculty members and researchers.
Ayileka says, “I'm excited to be connected with industry leaders who share the same passions and interests as me. Their counsel will be key as I develop my research skills and prepare for the next phases of my academic and professional career.”
Preparation for the future
As a MARC scholar, students are offered support as they prepare for their graduate school applications. The program allows students to discuss their career plans with their mentors and seek advice related to their fields.
Avanti Murukan Avanti Murukan, who is an undergraduate cancer biology major and MARC scholar, was motivated to apply to the program due to the preparation it offers to students.
“I applied to be a MARC Scholar because of the focus on students preparing and successfully transitioning into graduate schools, especially the Ph.D. and M.D./Ph.D. routes,” says Murukan.
“The MARC Program offers exposure, experience, and training opportunities that compelled me to apply, but alongside this, I wanted an environment that would enhance and promote my biomedical research on cancer further, and this is where I believed I could find that.”
In comparison, Pheven Yohannes, an undergraduate student in the College of Arts and Science, was led to apply to the program because of the alignment between her current and future goals.
Pheven Yohannes“When I first came to UAB, my primary goal was to become a physician, and that still remains my objective. However, I developed a strong interest in research, understanding its role in advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care,” says Yohannes.
“This interest led me to seek out opportunities like the MARC program, which allows me the opportunity to pursue my interests in medicine and research. I am excited to contribute to impactful research projects, gain valuable experience, and develop the skills necessary to bridge the gap between scientific research and clinical practice.”
To learn more about the MARC program, click here.