VT-ESTEEMED

What is VT-ESTEEMED

Welcome to VT-ESTEEMED a four-year, $1.1 million program funded by the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB, one of the institutes of the National Institutes of Health) to support early preparation in undergraduate education in STEM fields. Our primary objective is to provide educational opportunities that inspire individuals from diverse backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in the biomedical and behavioral sciences, to pursue advanced studies and careers in research.

VT-ESTEEMED focuses on early preparation for undergraduate students in the field of bioengineering or STEM disciplines relevant to bioengineering. These fields may include engineering, as well as the physical and computational sciences, which all play integral roles in biomedical technologies and innovation. We aim to attract participants from various backgrounds who share an interest in pursuing a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. degree, along with a research career that integrates engineering, physical sciences, medicine, and biology.

The program activities begin the summer preceding the freshman year and extend through the summer following the sophomore year of undergraduate studies. During this time, participants will participate in a range of experiences designed to cultivate their passion and aptitude for research. By the end of the program, we expect participants to be prepared to enter an honors program tailored to high-achieving STEM students, which will equip them for doctoral programs in biomedical research fields.

Join us on this exciting journey as we foster the next generation of innovators and leaders. Together, we can create a future where diversity and inclusion fuel groundbreaking advancements in healthcare and beyond.