Celebrating the Success of the CADRE Program and Its First Cohort of Interns

Students from historically underserved backgrounds at San Diego Mesa College are now

getting hands-on research experience through an exciting partnership with the UC San Diego Altman

Clinical and Translational Research Institute (ACTRI) UC San Diego. The CreAting

Diversity in Science through Research Education (CADRE) program connects these students

with clinical research opportunities, financial support, and mentorship from UCSD faculty,

providing an extensive introduction to the world of translational science.

The CADRE program not only introduces students to clinical research but also fosters critical

thinking, professional development, and network building. During the summer cohort, students

spent eight weeks immersed in hands-on research at UCSD labs, gaining new skills, with some

even extending their internships. Notably, six of the seven interns continued their research

under the guidance of their mentors, with one student even securing a permanent position in the

lab.

This year, the CADRE program celebrated a significant milestone with its inaugural cohort. At

the CADRE Certificate Ceremony last month, students, faculty, and mentors gathered to honor

the hard work and achievements of these aspiring scientists. The event featured dinner,

thoughtful reflections on the internship experience, and a keynote address by Dr. Edward

Cachay, who highlighted the importance of diversity in advancing research innovation.

The program’s impact is already evident: one student successfully transferred to UCSD, another

was hired at Scripps, and all participants have expressed enthusiasm for continuing their

research journeys. CADRE has proven to be more than just a temporary opportunity—it is a

launching pad for careers in science, with interns aspiring to pursue advanced degrees in fields

ranging from neuropsychology to epidemiology.

The CADRE program demonstrates that when students from underrepresented backgrounds

are given access to high-quality mentorship and research experiences, they are empowered to

shape the future of science. Congratulations to the 2024 CADRE graduates!