Maximizing Access to Research Careers Undergraduate - Student Training in Academic Research (MARC U-STAR) (T34) | PAR 17 068

Opportunity Information: Apply for PAR 17 068

The Maximizing Access to Research Careers Undergraduate - Student Training in Academic Research (MARC U-STAR) (T34) opportunity is a National Institutes of Health (NIH) discretionary grant program (Funding Opportunity Number PAR 17-068; CFDA 93.859) that supports structured undergraduate research training aimed at preparing high-achieving students from underrepresented backgrounds to enter and succeed in doctoral (Ph.D.) programs in biomedical research fields. The program is built around the idea that early, well-organized exposure to real research and strong mentoring can help talented underrepresented undergraduates stay on the biomedical research pathway, complete their bachelor’s degrees, and move competitively into research-intensive graduate programs. In the longer term, the intent is to increase the number of underrepresented individuals earning both baccalaureate and Ph.D. degrees in biomedical research, strengthening and diversifying the national scientific workforce.

Funded programs are expected to provide a coherent set of training activities rather than isolated experiences. The opportunity emphasizes authentic research experiences as a core component, meaning students should participate in genuine research work that reflects how biomedical science is actually conducted. In addition to lab or research placements, programs should include academic enhancements and structured skills development, which can cover research methods, scientific communication, critical thinking, quantitative skills, and other competencies that directly support readiness for doctoral-level training. Mentoring is also a central expectation, with the program encouraging supportive guidance that helps students navigate academic milestones, build research identity, and prepare for the expectations of graduate school and research careers.

Eligibility is broad across U.S.-based organizations, including various levels of government (state, county, city or township, and special district governments), independent school districts, public and state-controlled institutions of higher education, private institutions of higher education, Native American tribal governments (federally recognized), tribal organizations (other than federally recognized tribal governments), public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities, and a range of nonprofit organizations (both 501(c)(3) and non-501(c)(3), excluding institutions of higher education when specified). For-profit organizations (other than small businesses) and small businesses are also listed as eligible applicant types, along with an “Others” category, indicating NIH’s openness to different eligible organizational structures as long as they can deliver the required training environment.

The opportunity specifically highlights additional eligible applicant categories that align with its workforce diversification mission, including Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions, Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISIs), Hispanic-serving Institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCUs), faith-based or community-based organizations, regional organizations, eligible federal agencies, Indian/Native American tribal governments (other than federally recognized), and U.S. territories or possessions. At the same time, it clearly restricts foreign participation: non-domestic (non-U.S.) entities and non-domestic (non-U.S.) foreign institutions are not eligible to apply, non-domestic components of U.S. organizations are not eligible, and foreign components (as defined in the NIH Grants Policy Statement) are not allowed. These restrictions mean the training program and its supported activities must be carried out entirely within allowable U.S.-based organizational structures and locations.

The original closing date listed for this opportunity was 2018-05-24, and the record indicates it was created on 2016-12-06. While the award ceiling and expected number of awards are not provided in the supplied source data, the essential takeaway is that MARC U-STAR (T34) is a NIH training-focused grant mechanism intended to help institutions build and run comprehensive undergraduate research training programs that move underrepresented students into competitive positions for biomedical Ph.D. programs, thereby expanding participation and equity in the biomedical research enterprise.

• The National Institutes of Health in the health sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "Maximizing Access to Research Careers Undergraduate - Student Training in Academic Research (MARC U-STAR) (T34)" and is now available to receive applicants.
• Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 93.859.
• This funding opportunity was created on 2016-12-06.
• Applicants must submit their applications by 2018-05-24. (Agency may still review applications by suitable applicants for the remaining/unused allocated funding in 2026.)
• Eligible applicants include: State governments, County governments, City or township governments, Special district governments, Independent school districts, Public and State controlled institutions of higher education, Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized), Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities, Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments), Nonprofits having a 501 (c) (3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Nonprofits that do not have a 501 (c) (3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Private institutions of higher education, For-profit organizations other than small businesses, Small businesses, Others.

Apply for PAR 17 068

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