Young Innovative Investigator Program (YIIP)
Call for Applications
The Young Innovative Investigator Program (YIIP) is a two-year program of The Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering which aims to develop the next generation of innovative scientists by providing academic training to individuals dedicated to pursuing careers as scientists and scholars in biological and biomedical science. The program is specifically focused on recruiting underrepresented students to contribute towards developing a sustainable pipeline to increase diversity among the pool of academic scientists. YIIP provides tools for scholars to conduct research, succeed in an academic environment, and become competitive candidates for medical school and/or graduate school. YIIP Scholars will acquire the expertise necessary to obtain a Ph.D., MD/Ph.D., or MD.
Overview:
YIIP is an intensive research program for college graduates comprised of graduate level coursework and mentored research in biomedical laboratories at the University of Connecticut (Farmington and Storrs campuses). It provides individualized mentorship, academic support, and career guidance. YIIP Scholars are employed as Graduate Assistants who earn a stipend and qualify for health insurance coverage. In addition, the tuition expense and fees associated with required graduate level courses are waived. Upon successful completion of year one, scholars obtain a Graduate Certificate of Research Experience in Biomedical Science. In year two, Scholars who meet the academic qualifications pursue a Master of Science in Biomedical Science involving innovative mentored research.
Eligibility:
The selection committee is committed to the principle of equity and seeks a diverse group of candidates, including individuals from underrepresented groups. Consideration will be given to those applicants traditionally underrepresented in the biomedical sciences.
All applicants must:
- Have completed a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum of an overall 3.0 GPA.
- Demonstrate high motivation and potential to become a basic scientist with a goal of attaining a Ph.D., MD/Ph.D., or MD
- Meet all eligibility criteria and have a high probability of fulfilling the social and educational goals of this program.
- Be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States.
For more information, please visit our website: https://health.uconn.edu/regenerative-engineering-institute/young-innovative-investigator-program/ or contact:
Jolene Monahan Wilding
Program Manager
monahanwilding@uchc.edu
or
Gualberto Ruaño, MD, Ph.D.
Assistant Director, Special Projects
ruano@uchc.edu
Due to the competitiveness of the program, YIIP has a shorter application timeline, than the dates indicated by The Graduate School for Fall 2024 enrollment. Apply at the Graduate School’s Website by Sunday, March 3, 2024. In addition to the standard graduate school requirements, please submit a copy of your Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV), a Personal Statement of Interest and Professional Goals, a Narrative on Research Experience, and two letters of recommendation.
As we are committed to promoting a diverse graduate community, the Graduate School has agreed to waive the $75 non-refundable application fee for prospective YIIP students. Once you begin your online application, you must email the YIIP Program Manager stating that you are applying to the program to initiate the waiver. You will be notified when the waiver has been granted and how to proceed with your application submittal.
For more information, contact: Jolene Monahan Wilding at monahanwilding@uchc.edu