The goal of the Leading Equity and Diversity in the Medical Scientist Training Program (LEAD MSTP) is to develop a diverse pool of highly trained clinician-scientist leaders available to meet the Nations biomedical research needs by providing support for dual-degree clinician scientist training at institutions that have historically not been well represented among NIGMS-funded MSTPs. Specifically, this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) provides support to eligible domestic institutions to develop and implement effective, evidence-informed approaches to fully integrate the transitional phases of dual-degree training and mentoring that will lead to the completion of both clinical degrees (e.g., M.D., D.O., D.V.M., D.D.S., Pharm.D., etc.), and research doctorate degrees (Ph.D.) and keep pace with the rapid evolution of the biomedical enterprise. With the dual qualification of a rigorous scientist and clinician, graduates will be equipped with the skills to develop research programs that accelerate the translation of research advances to the understanding, detection, treatment, and prevention of human disease, and to lead the advancement of biomedical research. Areas of particular importance to NIGMS are optimizing training efficiency, fostering the persistence of alumni in research careers, and enhancing the diversity of the clinician-scientist workforce. NIGMS expects that the proposed research training programs will incorporate didactic, research, mentoring and career development elements to prepare trainees for careers that will have a significant impact on the health-related research needs of the Nation. This program is limited to dual-degree training programs at (1) Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), (2) Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), and (3) institutions in the states and territories that participate in the Institutional Development Award (IDeA) program, a congressionally mandated program that builds research capacity in state.
