ABSTRACT This T32 application is for a new multidisciplinary IMSD program at Hunter College, CUNY to support 12 annual trainee positions across five Doctoral Programs (Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Psychology). We have been successful in this programmatic approach for many years as a RISE (R25) funded institution (2000-2024). Our RISE doctoral trainees have, on average, completed their PhD at higher rates and in less time than the average of PhD students in these doctoral programs. Furthermore, the application pools through which PhD students come to pursue their thesis work at Hunter is remarkably diverse. Individuals from underrepresented (UR) minority groups represent 29.3% of the PhD students matriculating in the five participating doctoral programs over the past five years. This robust pipeline of IMSD- eligible matriculants will enable the proposed program to effectively contribute to increasing diversity in the biomedical research workforce. The proposed IMSD program will build on our strengths to further improve the skill sets and outcomes of our trainees across 3 domains: science communication, big data analytics, and holistic career development. These skill sets are crucial to develop and enhance in the early years of doctoral training (years 2-4) as we propose. Program activities will enable trainees to develop 1) resiliency in science, 2) time management strategies, 3) enhanced critical thinking, and 4) effective mentor/mentee relationships. Additionally, Fellows will engage in teaching undergraduate labs and courses to develop their science communication and leadership skills, including academic and professional confidence. Program activities will also focus on developing skills in grantsmanship, large data set analyses, and oral presentations. All program activities will assist our students to 1) Attain PhD program landmarks/milestones in a timely manner, 2) Develop skills in critical thinking, writing, and science communication; 3) Gain additional training in technological skills that support their research and career interest; and 4) develop skills in leadership that support conducting ethically responsible and rigorous science investigation. The Fellows will also benefit from the experience of their mentors. The 35 participating faculty were recruited for their funding, productivity, and success in student development/mentorship, as well as their active engagement in their Doctoral Programs (including service on admissions and recruitment committees). Our Fellows will also have the strong institutional support of both Hunter College and the CUNY Graduate Center (the administrative hub for graduate studies at CUNY). Both institutions have a long-standing commitment to supporting the development of UR students in the sciences and, thus, a keen interest in supporting this proposed new IMSD program. Both institutions view this program as necessary and integral to their missions, as an impactful mechanism to support UR scientist entry into the biomedical research workforce.

PROJECT NARRATIVE / RELEVANCE STATEMENT Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY) is committed to the mission of diversifying the U.S. biomedical workforce. The IMSD Program at Hunter College will support the research training efforts and professional development of underrepresented predoctoral students in the biomedical sciences, preparing them to successfully complete the Ph.D. and obtain postdoctoral-level positions in science. Thus, this program will prepare the next generation of diverse scientists to engage in research to benefit public health.