Initiative for Maximizing Student Development Grant Program

What is the IMSD Program?

The IMSD program is a- T32 research training grant funded by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS). The primary goal of the IMSD program is to broaden the participation and success of graduate students in the biomedical sciences through mentorship, career development, community engagement, and support.

Eligibility

Students in the College of Graduate Studies who are in the first, second, or third year of the Ph.D. in Biomedical sciences are welcome from all disciplines/areas of research and dual degree students).
U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or lawful permanent resident at the time of application

How to Apply?

Applications will be sent via email to students in late summer.

Applicants belonging to groups underrepresented in the biomedical sciences, including individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and individuals with disabilities , are strongly encourage to apply. For additional information, please refer to the NIH

IMSD by the numbers:

59 scholars supported by the grant

32 scholars obtained a Ph.D. degree
6 students obtained an MS degree
17 students currently in training
10 scholars obtained significant individual- funding as graduate student

Career choices include 23% to industry, 3% to non-profit organizations, 40% to academia, 10% to the government, and 23% to other/further training

Over 102 Publications, with at least:

1 first-authored publication per trainee
3 co-authored publications per trainee
4 publications total per trainee

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the length of the programs?

Scholars are appointed for 1 year, from September 1 through August 30. There is the potential for re-appointment for second and third-year students depending on satisfactory progress. Per NIH guidelines, a pre-doctoral student is limited to five years for NRSA support.

Will participation in this program delay degree completions?

No, participation in the IMSD program will provide mentorship and guidance to ensure timely completion of the PhD program. Furthermore, scholars will be well-prepared for the career of their choice.

What are the benefits of the IMSD Program?

The IMSD program provides scholars with individualized mentoring and career development and an interdisciplinary community of support
Stipend support at the NRSA-established levels for predoctoral trainees and fellows. The College of Graduate Studies supplements the remainder of the stipend in Year 1of the PhD program and the scholar's mentor for subsequent years of support.
Up to $16,000 in tuition and fees and health insurance
$500 in supplies
$1,000 in travel funds
$3,000 in childcare costs per NIH guidelines
Monthly luncheon with IMSD Community
Individualized mentorship
Individualized career development

How is IMSD T32 different from other T32s?

Interdisciplinary training programs for PhD students from various disciplines and research areas
Support trainees in the first, second, and third year for the PhD Program
Individualized career development and exposure to various career tracks
Engagement in social activities to promoter a sense of community

Are all areas of research eligible to apply?

Yes, IMSD is an interdisciplinary program and we welcome PhD students with a concentration in any research area.

Can I appointed for more than one year?

Yes, IMSD scholars are eligible for support in their second and third year of the program depending on satisfactory progress.

Should I acknowledge IMSD funding on my poster, oral presentation, and publications throughout my PhD training?

Yes, IMSD scholars (present and past) should acknowledge the IMSD training grant on all posters, presentations (even dissertation defenses), and publications by citing: NIGMS grant number R25GM072643 and T32GM1523862

Meet the Scholars: