Enhancing Undergraduate Preparation for Research in Aging and Neurologic Diseases
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Project Summary/Abstract In the decades ahead, demographic trends suggest that the sheer number of older adults will increase, and they will make up a larger proportion of the overall population. Many of these individuals will experience some type of neurological disease at some point in their life. Consequently, we need an expanded cadre of scientists trained to generate new knowledge about neurological conditions and aging. To address this need, we will conduct an eight-week Summer Undergraduate Research Experience in Aging and Neurologic Diseases at the Harvey A. Friedman Center for Aging at the Institute for Public Health at Washington University. The program will 1) provide a diverse group of undergraduate students with a closely mentored research laboratory experience, combined with didactics and professional development sessions, and 2) frame the research training in the context of aging and neurological disorders common in later life. These goals address the need to nurture new researchers, diverse in their backgrounds and experiences, to address the workforce shortage of scientists investigating issues of an aging society. Up to 10 undergraduate students each summer will be matched with an individual faculty member whose research focuses on one of three neurological conditions (stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or dementia) or who conducts research on interventions for individuals with these conditions (e.g., home modifications, engagement in valued activities). Students will also gather for weekly seminars that expose them to a multidisciplinary perspective on aging, teach them research skills, and encourage their professional growth and momentum toward further scholarship and training. With this program we aim to engage trainees from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, which reflects the diversity of the older adult population itself and the multidisciplinary approach necessary to advance research on the prevention and treatment of neurologic disorders.
