The Boston University Kidney and Medical Engineering Program (BU-KIDMEP)

Major challenges facing nephrology today are declining interest in the field and lack of innovation and novel drug and device development. These factors may be related. Students who perceive nephrology as stagnant may be attracted to other specialties, thereby robbing the nephrology workforce of students who could innovate and advance the field. The R25 Funding Opportunity Announcement by NIDDK to spark interest in nephrology is therefore timely and an exciting opportunity to address a major need in the evolution of nephrology and the care of patients with kidney diseases. We propose the development of the Boston University Kidney and Medical Engineering Program (BU-KIDMEP). Our ultimate goal is to inspire young scholars to improve the lives of individuals with kidney disease through innovative technology solutions. To accomplish this, we have designed a program that: 1) provides students across Boston University an opportunity to apply technology and engineering to kidney diseases, with an emphasis on undergraduates; 2) Pairs students with a mentoring team comprised of a research/technology expert and a nephrology expert; 3) Provides a 6- to 24- month long education program that includes didactic training, clinical immersion, and technology development; 4) Showcases research at capstone symposia; and 5) Tracks metrics to improve the program's success in attracting students to applying technology to kidney disease.