What is MARC?
The Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC) Nevada program, sponsored by the National Institutes of General Medical Sciences and established in 1975, is a program designed to help develop a diverse pool of undergraduates who complete their baccalaureate degree, and transition into and complete research-focused higher degree programs (e.g., Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D.) in biomedical sciences. The long-term goal is to develop a diverse pool of well-trained scientists.
Why is this program important?
The Maximizing Access to Research Careers Program sponsored by the National Institutes of General Medical Sciences was established in 1975 to help develop talent and to increase the number of Ph.D. degrees awarded to diverse populations.
Eligibility
The program is designed for students completing their second year of college (and will have completed 60 or more units by the end of May). Trainees for the program will be selected based of the following criteria:
- Full-time academic standing at the University of Nevada, Reno
- Upper-division standing by the end of May (i.e., 60 or more completed units)
- Interest in and demonstrated potential to obtain a graduate degree (Ph.D.) in a STEM field
- A science and overall GPA of 3.0 or better
- Willingness to complete the prescribed course of study and activities related to the MARC Nevada program
- U.S. citizen or U.S permanent resident
The goal of the NIH Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC) program is to develop a diverse pool of undergraduates who complete their baccalaureate degree and transition into and complete biomedical, research-focused higher degree programs (e.g., Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D.). Students from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
The MARC Nevada program is not intended for students who plan to pursue a medical degree only.
How do I apply?
The 2023 application is open. To apply, you will be asked to submit the following along with the online application:
- Essay: Elaborate on your background, interest in science/engineering, and long-range professional goals. The statement should address the following: (a) personal and family background as it relates to your wish to participate in the MARC Nevada program, (b) commitment to a Ph.D. in biomedical or behavioral research, and (c) your path (past, present, future) you've taken to that goal. Limit to two pages.
- Official Transcripts: Have the Office of Student Records from all universities and colleges you attended send a copy of your official transcript to our office. Also acceptable are e-mail copies sent from the Office of Student Records to MARCNevada@unr.edu. If obtaining official transcripts is a financial hardship, please email MARCNevada@unr.edu for other options.
- Letter of recommendation and NIH Biographical Sketch from an identified Trainer/Mentor: Provide a copy of the recommendation form completed by your Trainer/Mentor. The Trainer/Mentor you identified to write your letter of recommendation will also be asked to provide an NIH Biographical Sketch with the Personal Statement describing their training and experience as a mentor and the availability of research funding to support the trainee’s research. Your Trainer/Mentor may upload all documents here.
The application deadline is March 31, 2023.
Contact MARC Nevada with questions about applying to the program.
Program benefits
- An annual stipend of $13,920
- Partial financial coverage of tuition
- Textbook allowance and a research supply budget
- Research opportunities and mentoring
- Travel support to attend scientific conferences
- Opportunities to present and publish research
- Year round professional and scientific development workshops
- Standardized test-taking strategies workshops
- Opportunities to network in the scientific community
Program responsibilities and expectations
There are significant benefits to being in the MARC Nevada program, as well as a number of responsibilities and expectations. The MARC program is a two-year commitment; students are appointed in the summer each year and are expected to remain in good standing until graduation.
For details about MARC Nevada course requirements and research expectations, contact the MARC Nevada program lead at MARCNevada@unr.edu.
