Tech News Summary:
– Virginia Tech students participated in the Translational Obesity Undergraduate Research Fellows Program, which gave them the opportunity to visit the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and learn about translational obesity research.
– The program, led by Deborah Good and Samantha Harden, aims to prepare students for medical and graduate education by equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed for direct application of their research.
– During the visit, the students met prominent figures in the field, toured research facilities, and gained valuable insights from experts in the field of obesity research.
TOUR Scholars Explore the Cutting-Edge World of National Institutes of Health
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As part of an initiative aimed at fostering the next generation of scientists, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) welcomed a group of high school students to its renowned NIH Research Campus in Bethesda, Maryland. The students, selected through the Technology Outreach Urban Research (TOUR) program, embarked on a fascinating journey exploring the cutting-edge world of medical research.
The TOUR program, developed by NIH’s Office of Science Education, aims to expose young students, particularly those from underrepresented communities, to the vast possibilities within the field of biomedical research. By offering valuable hands-on experiences and mentorship opportunities, the program strives to inspire these budding scientists to pursue careers in health and medical sciences.
During their visit to the NIH Research Campus, the TOUR scholars were immersed in a variety of engaging and interactive activities. They had the unique opportunity to tour state-of-the-art laboratories, where groundbreaking research is conducted daily. Under the guidance of esteemed scientists, the students witnessed first-hand the development of cutting-edge technologies and the innovative methodologies employed to combat diseases and improve healthcare.
Moreover, the scholars engaged in discussions with leading researchers, who not only shared their knowledge and experience but also conveyed their passion for scientific discovery. The students were encouraged to ask thought-provoking questions and explore areas of their specific interest. This personal interaction allowed the scholars to gain valuable insights into various scientific disciplines, ranging from genomics and neuroscience to immunology and epidemiology.
“I am grateful for the chance to participate in the TOUR program. It has given me the opportunity to glimpse into the world of medical research and understand the profound impact it has on society,” expressed Hannah, one of the TOUR scholars. “The dedication and enthusiasm demonstrated by the researchers truly inspired me and solidified my desire to pursue a career in science.”
The visit to the NIH Research Campus also showcased the organization’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. By actively reaching out to underrepresented students and exposing them to scientific perspectives from diverse backgrounds, NIH aims to nurture a future generation of researchers that truly represents the diverse population it serves.
“We are delighted to host the TOUR scholars and provide them with a glimpse into the exciting world of biomedical research,” said Dr. Francis Collins, Director of the National Institutes of Health. “Through programs like TOUR, we are fostering a diverse and talented pipeline of scientists who will contribute to breakthrough discoveries and better health outcomes in the future.”
The TOUR program at NIH represents an essential step towards bridging the gap between scientific research and underrepresented communities. By inspiring and empowering young scientists early on, these tours pave the way for a more inclusive and innovative future of medical research.