Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program (PREP)

PREP Class of 2023 - 2024
PREP Class of 2024- 2025

MUSC PREP is a one-year NIH-funded research fellowship designed to equip postbaccalaureate scholars with the skills and experiences necessary for success in a biomedical research doctoral program. Through intensive research training and professional development, participants will gain a competitive edge as they apply to Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. programs.

PREP scholars will have the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research projects in areas such as cancer, neuroscience, cardiovascular biology, and molecular biology. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, participants will develop their research skills, build a strong network, and gain valuable insights into the world of biomedical research.

While MUSC PREP offers a strong foundation for pursuing a doctoral degree, it's important to note that successful completion does not guarantee admission to any particular Ph.D. program. However, the program is designed to maximize participants' chances of success in their academic and career aspirations.

MUSC PREP Provides Scholars with:

 Research

  • Hands-on introduction to benchwork techniques
  • Hypothesis-driven laboratory research project with experienced, dedicated mentors

Professional Development

  • Individualized professional development plans and personalized coaching sessions
  • Workshops and numerous presentation opportunities to improve scientific communication skills
  • Travel to national scientific conferences
  • Preparation for graduate school applications and interviews
  • Graduate-level coursework and research ethics training

Community

  • Inclusion in a vibrant community of biomedical scientists at all levels of training
  • Monthly research meetings with current Ph.D. students from a range of  backgrounds
  • Career exploration and networking with Ph.D.'s in traditional and nontraditional career paths

Financial Considerations

Scholars receive:

  • $34,000 annual salary
  • Tuition waiver
  • Travel allowance
  • Reimbursement for health insurance up to $2,000
  • Relocation support

Program Timeline

  • PREP begins in early June and runs one full year (12 months).

Eligibility

  • U.S. citizen, noncitizen national, or lawful permanent resident 
  • Recent baccalaureate graduate from a regionally accredited U.S. university (within the last 3 years before applying to PREP) in the biomedical or behavioral sciences
  • Interested in applying to a biomedical PhD program  

Application Process

  • Application opens December 1st and closes April 30th.
  • Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis. Students are strongly encouraged to apply early.

For More Information

For additional questions about the program, please contact Dr. Bradley Elwood at PREP@musc.edu

 PREP By the Numbers

88%

Matriculated into Ph.D. programs

97%

Retained in their Ph.D. programs

100%

Presented at a national conference during PREP

39%

Had a publication from their PREP research

7.4%

Working in Health-related fields

2.4%

Working in Biotech

2.4%

Working in other fields

2015

First year of PREP at MUSC

5

PREP scholars graduated with a Ph.D.

7

Number of current scholars

1

Scholar pursuing an MD/PhD

41*

Total number of scholars who participated in our program

*4 scholars were supported by non-NIH funding