Abstract B009: Empowering the next generation of cancer researchers: Outcomes of the UC Davis CURE program for underrepresented students in biomedical research

Abstract Cancer health disparities stem from a complex interplay of biological, social, economic, cultural, environmental, behavioral, and clinical factors, disproportionately affecting communities of color, rural populations, socioeconomically marginalized groups, and individuals with disabilities. These populations remain significantly underrepresented in the U.S. biomedical research and healthcare workforce, perpetuating inequities in cancer outcomes. The UC Davis Continuing Umbrella of Research Experiences (CURE) program seeks to address this gap by offering a longitudinal, two-year research and mentoring experience for underrepresented undergraduate students interested in cancer research. The program supports junior and senior students through faculty-mentored cancer research, financial assistance, academic advising, and professional development, while fostering a strong sense of belonging and scientific identity. We conducted a retrospective analysis of program participants from 2011 to 2024 using institutional records and follow-up surveys to evaluate academic and career trajectories. Since 2011, the CURE program has supported 62 upper-division undergraduates. Of these, 13 were economically disadvantaged, 24 were both racial/ethnic minority and disadvantaged, and 25 were from racial/ethnic minority backgrounds. Participants identified as Hispanic (n=36), African American (n=11), Asian American (n=11), White (n=2), Hmong (n=1), and Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander (n=1); 54.8% (n=34) identified as women. Of the 62 students, 54 graduated, with 52 completing STEM majors, and 8 are continuing undergraduates. Among the 54 graduates, 29 (54%) have matriculated into advanced degree programs, including 9 into MD programs, 7 into PhD programs (3 in biomedical research and 1 in medical sociology), and 2 into MD/PhD programs. Additionally, 8 pursued MS programs, 1 completed an MPAS, and 1 is in law school. Three graduates are in NIH IRTA post-baccalaureate programs. Many scholars take gap years before pursuing graduate education, with 5 currently in this phase. This includes 5 individuals currently in a gap year, 8 employed as research technicians (7 in cancer-related fields), 6 working in the medical field, 2 are employed in other STEM fields, and 3 have unknown outcomes. Qualitative analysis is underway to assess the impacts of the first summer in the program on research-related skills, science identity, and values, as well as mentor surveys evaluating students' research-related skills. Our findings underscore the CURE program’s success in supporting students’ matriculation into advanced graduate and professional degree programs. By providing underrepresented students with sustained mentorship, research training, and academic support, the program cultivates the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in biomedical research. Continued support in initiatives like CURE is critical for advancing health equity and building a more diverse and inclusive cancer research workforce. Citation Format: Alexa Morales Arana, Connie Champagne, Amy Barlow, Frederick Meyers. Empowering the next generation of cancer researchers: Outcomes of the UC Davis CURE program for underrepresented students in biomedical research [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 18th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities; 2025 Sep 18-21; Baltimore, MD. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2025;34(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B009.