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CADRE Program

Overview

The CreAting Dedicated Scientists through Research Education (CADRE) program is an innovative initiative led by the UC San Diego Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute (ACTRI) to provide research immersion opportunities for underserved college students in San Diego County. CADRE supports students from historically underrepresented backgrounds in science, offering hands-on experience in translational research, financial assistance, and faculty mentorship. Partnering with local community colleges and UC San Diego, the program empowers students to balance work and research, addressing barriers to participation while preparing them for scientific careers.

Through paid research positions, mentorship, and specialized training like the Clinical Coordinator Bootcamp, CADRE equips students with practical skills and professional development. Participants gain access to ACTRI’s resources, including vouchers for biostatistics consultations and other project support services. The program’s outcomes are transformative, with students pursuing advanced degrees, securing research positions, and contributing to diversity in science. CADRE exemplifies how inclusive education and mentorship can cultivate the next generation of scientific leaders.

Important Information

  • The next cohort will begin in June 2025.
  • Applications will open in March 2025 (through March 28, 2025) with placements completed by early May 2025.
CADRE students with certificate

The CADRE Program and Its First Cohort of Students

The CADRE program offers students from underserved backgrounds hands-on research experience, mentorship, and financial support. The inaugural cohort celebrated their achievements, with many continuing their research careers, transferring to UCSD, or securing jobs in the field, demonstrating CADRE’s role in fostering the next generation of diverse scientists.

Click here to read the blog post

Videos

Interviews with CADRE Students

Day in the Life of a CADRE Student

Ceremony Recap

Outcomes

CADRE First Cohort Outcomes:

  1. Continued Research:

    • Six out of seven interns extended their internships and continued working under the mentorship of their faculty advisors.
    • One student secured a permanent position in the lab.

  2. Academic and Career Advancements:

    • One student successfully transferred to UC San Diego.
    • Another student was hired at Scripps.

  3. Enthusiasm for Future Research:

    • All participants expressed a strong desire to continue their research journeys.

  4. Inspiring Career Paths:

    • CADRE interns are pursuing advanced degrees in various fields, including neuropsychology and epidemiology, demonstrating the program’s long-term impact on their scientific careers.

  5. Celebration of Achievements:

    • The inaugural cohort was honored at the CADRE Certificate Ceremony, where students, faculty, and mentors reflected on the experience and celebrated the participants’ accomplishments.
    • Dr. Edward "Lalo" Cachay delivered a keynote address emphasizing the significance of diversity in advancing research innovation.