The MARC Program is a unique research, mentoring, financial and academic opportunity for undergraduates in biomedical research and who have the interest and potential to pursue a PhD or combined PhD (e.g. MD/PhD) degree. The program is a two-year program intended for the last two years of a student’s enrollment at the University of Arizona.
The expectation is that students who participate in the MARC program will be well-prepared to take the next step in pursuing their graduate education and a future research career in the biomedical sciences.
- Research Interest: demonstrate a strong interest in considering a biomedical research career via the Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. degrees
- Commitment: spend final two summers and four UA semesters in the program prior to earning their baccalaureate degree (some exceptions will be considered)
- Citizenship: citizen or non-citizen national of the United States or lawfully admitted for permanent residence; those with foreign student status lacking permanent residence status cannot be considered
- Any major related to the biomedical sciences. In the past, majors of participating students have included Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics, Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, General Biology, Mathematics, Microbiology, Molecular & Cellular Biology, Neuroscience & Cognitive Science, Nutritional Sciences, Physiology (or pre-major), Psychology (BS), or Speech, Language & Hearing Sciences. Other majors will be considered as well.
- Credits completed: at least 56 units prior to start of training (June 1 of each year)
- GPA: overall and a math/science GPA of at least 3.0 for courses taken at a 4-year institution
- Prior research experience is NOT required.
- Research training in labs of outstanding faculty at the University of Arizona. Faculty with active and well-funded research programs provide research guidance and intensive mentoring to participants.
- Annual national scientific meeting
- Colloquium course specifically designed for undergraduates in biomedical disciplines. Research talks are from scientists from other institutions, the U of A, or MARC program participants.
- Assistance with preparation for the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)
- Assistance with preparation of applications to graduate school or summer programs including personal statement
- Training in the responsible conduct of research
- Training in scientific writing and presentation skills
- Overall mentoring and career guidance
- Monthly stipend (currently approximately $1,200 per month)
- Full or partial tuition and fees
- Health insurance, if needed
- Travel support
Contacts and Location of Office:
MARC Program Office - Biosciences West 531
- Dr. Katrina Miranda, Director, Associate Professor, Chemistry & Biochemistry,
626-3655, kmiranda@arizona.edu - Dr. Sam Campos, Associate Director, Associate Professor, BIO5 Institute 429,
626-4842, skcampos@arizona.edu - Cindy Neal, Assistant Director, 621-4667, cjneal@arizona.edu