University of Wisconsin Eau Claire-Mayo Clinic Regenerative Neuroscience Scholars (ReNS) Program

Abstract Text The University of Wisconsin Eau Claire – Mayo Clinic Regenerative Neuroscience Scholars (ReNS) Program combines the strengths of two complementary institutions committed to supporting student diversity to enable undergraduates to pursue careers involving research and Ph.D. training in regenerative neuroscience. UWEC is an undergraduate-focused public state university with demonstrated excellence in undergraduate research. Mayo Clinic is a world-renowned research organization and a growing leader in regenerative neuroscience research and training. UWEC and Mayo Clinic have a master collaborative research agreement, which enables highly coordinated institutional support of this program. The goals of the ReNS Program are to (1) enable top-quality summer undergraduate research experiences for students that result in presentations at national conferences and publications, (2) cultivate a curriculum of content and skills training that supports the success of students in careers in research and Ph.D. training, and (3) promote supportive mentoring and professional relationship building of students. Based on a proactive recruitment strategy to connect with first-and second-year students and prospective students, the program recruits cohorts of 6 students per year for training in research through a spring seminar course at UWEC, a summer research experience in the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program at Mayo Clinic Rochester, subsequent presentation of their research in multiple conference settings, and long-term support of career development. The academic curriculum focuses on advancing skills related to research and promoting professional development and personal identity as a scientist. The research training focuses on developing laboratory skills and scientific thinking along with creating scientific products (conference presentations, publications). Mentoring is central to the program; students have mentoring in research with Mayo Clinic faculty, near-peer mentoring from researchers (postbaccalaureate/graduate students) at Mayo Clinic, and role model mentoring from UWEC alumni scientists and neuroscientists through videoconferencing and informational interviews. The program is supported by 2 advisory committees focused on integral components of program success (recruitment and student success (RSS), mentoring). With the input of an expert evaluator of STEM training initiatives and the advisory committees, the ReNS program maximizes student success toward successful careers in research and Ph.D. training in regenerative neuroscience.