Generating Research Opportunities Within Statistics at Fred Hutch (GROWS@FredHutch)

In biomedical research, the need for engaged and well-trained researchers in statistics and data science has never been greater. Yet, the requisite academic pipeline for training and mentoring such a workforce remains inadequate. The driving objective of GROWS@FredHutch (Generating Research Opportunities Within Statistics at Fred Hutch) is to simultaneously tackle these obstacles. To address the pipeline problem, we will develop and implement a new summer mentored research program for undergraduate students. The program will offer: (1) an engaging and supportive mentored research experience that increases their awareness of and interest in pursuing careers in statistics and data science research and (2) career development, community building, and social/emotional support activities. Our goal is that students will not only gain skills and confidence in statistics and data science, but they will feel engaged in the statistics and research communities. The program will also provide coaching to faculty mentors to optimize their chances of success and confidence in mentoring students and will engage faculty in activities that build community. The specific objectives of GROWS@FredHutch are to: (1) Educate: through intensive training in R programming and statistics via an introductory didactic program followed by ongoing reinforcement and support; (2) Engage: via carefully crafted mentored statistics projects; (3) Enable: through career development workshops and a role-model program; (4) Endure: foster ongoing connection and support students in pursuing research careers in the field via activities to build community and sense of belonging and career support post program. In addition, we propose to offer a program for faculty mentors that will improve mentoring skills, build confidence in supervising students, and increase awareness of the importance of fostering a sense engagement among students. The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center offers a world-renowned research environment and scientific faculty and prioritize training the next generation of biomedical researchers. The Puget Sound area is home to a large student population, which will be targeted for recruitment via a well-honed recruitment plan bolstered by longstanding academic partnerships.