Building Graduate Student Skills and Networks through the SHort course In transFerable skills Training (SHIFT) Program

While seldom formally taught, transferable skills are critical to prepare graduate students as they navigate into productive, engaging, and rewarding biomedical research careers. To bridge this gap, Meharry Medical College developed the SHort Course In transFerable Skills Training (SHIFT) Program. This one-year professional development initiative was designed to equip graduate students across the United States with skills to prepare them for rewarding careers in biomedical research. We focused initial data analysis of the first cohort on their experiences participating in a three-day workshop. The inaugural SHIFT cohort comprised 24 participants selected from a competitive pool of 31 applicants, with 96% of participants signifying groups underrepresented in science. The cohort engaged in sessions on project management, marketing, and budgeting, along with a tour of the NIH. Cumulative survey scores for the session on project management were 4.6±0.1, for the session on marketing were 4.6±0.1, and for the session on budgeting were 4.6±0.2 (rank 1-5, with 5 highest). Student responses to survey questions asking what part of the session had the biggest impact were analyzed by the Copilot Artificial Intelligence (AI) Platform (Microsoft) and grouped by themes. Key themes from the project management session included the value of the discussion on conflict resolution, need for effective communication, practical application of project management principles, and the importance of team work and collaboration. For the marketing session, the students appreciated the discussion on how to effectively use: AI appropriately, their CV for personal branding, and networks to build relationships. For the budgeting session, students highlighted their appreciation of developing a shadow budget, understanding budget components, and practical application through case studies with informative question and answer sessions. The NIH visit provided valuable networking and insights into resources and career paths through information sessions and lab tours. Overall, the surveys indicated a comprehensive learning experience with a strong focus on practical application, interpersonal skills, and career development. The sessions were well-received, with participants appreciating the interactive elements and the opportunity to apply learned concepts to real-life situations. Analysis of participant surveys highlighted the importance of hands-on learning and networking in professional development programs. Collectively, the SHIFT Program allowed the first cohort of participants to train, practice, and refresh skills, empowering them to navigate career transitions and obtain success in the career of their choice. NIH GM151274, HL144941, HL151407, HL106365, DK020593, UC2MD019626; VA BX000505; AHA 23SFRNCCS1052486; NSF2229521; DOEG-SOW-A-02557; UNCF/BMS; BWF; CZI This abstract was presented at the American Physiology Summit 2025 and is only available in HTML format. There is no downloadable file or PDF version. The Physiology editorial board was not involved in the peer review process.