Abstract 1044 Increasing Universal Accessibility in Undergraduate Biochemistry Laboratory Courses

The majority of PhD graduates in the biomedical sciences do not become professors.Yet, graduate education at universities stills relies on an out-dated apprenticeship model where supervisors train their future replacements.To better prepare graduate students for careers in academia and beyond, the Department of Biochemistry created a graduate professional development course as part of the graduate curriculum.The course is designed to enhance the student's skill set starting with self-reflection and individual development plans (IDPs).Students develop their professional network through activities such as informational interviews and career panels featuring alumni working in various sectors of the economy.Mentorship plays a key role as students navigate a competitive research environment and job market.Finally, supervisors are encouraged to create a