Abstract C14: The Florida ReTOOL Program: Creating a training bridge for the next generation of biomedical scientists
Authors: Odedina Folakemi T. , Markham Merry Jennifer , Reams Renee , Mochona Bereket , Alma Dixon , Jennifer Nguyen , Lauren Gilbert 
Published: May 2016

Background and Objective: There is a need to develop a cadre of racially and ethnically diverse, well-trained scientists to: (1) increase the capacity for scientific research among underserved populations; (2) address cultural appropriateness of the conceptualization, design and implementation of research ideas; (3) effectively and respectfully deliver health care interventions for diverse populations; and (4) eliminate health disparities. To achieve our long-term goal of increasing the pool of minority cancer researchers, the objective of the Florida Cancer Research Training Opportunities for Outstanding Leaders (ReTOOL) program is to develop, promote and sustain an independent, competitive cancer research training program that creates opportunities and promotes careers in cancer research for underrepresented minority (URM) students. The ReTOOL program trains URM students from University of Florida (UF), Florida A&M University (FAMU) and Bethune-Cookman University (BCU) at UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC).

Research Strategy: Based on over 10 years research training experiences for URM students in Florida, our strategy includes: (1) partnership between a minority institution and a comprehensive cancer center, with the training occurring at the cancer center; (2) dedicated mentor pool of nationally recognized scientists who are committed to diversity and have expertise in the area of basic, behavioral or clinical sciences; (3) committed faculty advisors at the home (minority) institutions who provide preparatory training and continuous mentoring for trainees; (4) a culturally responsive staff at the cancer center to assist trainees effectively navigate the resources at the cancer center and provide support outside academic/professional development; (5) an effective recruitment process that includes rigorous screening process and orientation; (6) clear requirements and expectations for the training program; (7) cradle to grave system to support trainees; and (8) trainee tracking and evaluation. The ReTOOL program focuses on successfully bridging URM students to graduate or medical school and supporting the trainees throughout their career. The program includes: (i) Basic ReTOOL 12-week summer training, funded by the US Department of Defense, for URM students without research experience; (ii) Academy I ReTOOL 12-week summer training, funded by the National Cancer Institute and UFHCC, for continuous/subsequent training of Basic ReTOOL alumni; (iii) Academy II ReTOOL 1-year post-baccalaureate training (if needed), funded by the UFHCC, to bridge ReTOOL alumni to graduate/medical school; and (iv) triad continuous mentoring by ReTOOL program director, FAMU/BCU minority institution faculty advisor and UF faculty mentor.

Results: 19 URM students successfully completed the program between 2012 and 2015. The scholarly achievements of the program include 20 completed projects by URM students, 12 published scientific abstracts presented at national/international conferences, 3 publications, 3 publications in progress, 3 grant awards based on the ReTOOL program, and 12 student recognitions/awards. Six students have been admitted to graduate/medical schools, including UF, FAMU, Duke University, Indiana University and Howard University. 2 students have just been admitted to the Academy II ReTOOL 1-year post-baccalaureate training at UF. The ReTOOL program has also led to an increase in cancer health disparities research at UF, especially among the ReTOOL mentors. According to a ReTOOL mentee: “The growth that I have made is without a doubt beneficial to me progressing towards the next chapter in my life.” A ReTOOL mentor stated in his evaluation, “Rewarding opportunity to teach and mentor minority students in the field of prostate cancer.”

Conclusion: Developing and sustaining the interests of URM students in biomedical science requires a comprehensive and sustainable approach, as seen in the ReTOOL program. The success of the ReTOOL program has led to a training model for diversity in graduate programs at UF and currently being adopted by multiple departments at UF.

Citation Format: Folakemi T. Odedina, Merry Jennifer Markham, Renee Reams, Bereket Mochona, Dixon Alma, Nguyen Jennifer, Gilbert Lauren. The Florida ReTOOL Program: Creating a training bridge for the next generation of biomedical scientists. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Eighth AACR Conference on The Science of Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; Nov 13-16, 2015; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2016;25(3 Suppl):Abstract nr C14.