MARC U*STAR Pre-PhD Research Training Program

If you wish to pursue a PhD in the Biomedical, Behavioral, or Chemical Sciences, the MARC U*STAR Pre-Ph.D. Prep program can get you there.

The MARC U*STAR Program (Minority Access to Research Careers - Undergraduate Student Training for Academic Research) is funded by the NIH Training and Workforce Development division and provides the foundation needed by students to enter and succeed in doctoral studies. Positions are available for outstanding juniors and seniors with two years remaining prior to graduation. Trainees must be majoring in biology, chemistry, psychology or biomedical engineering, or be mathematics, statistics, or computer science majors who have committed to pursuing biomedical research aspects of their fields now and in doctoral training.

All MARC participants take part in a variety of activities that build their credentials for doctoral program entry and help them to succeed once they are there.  They perform original scientific research at UTSA and at a summer internship at top research institutions around the country.  They travel to scientific conferences throughout the country and present their research findings.  They take courses to develop themselves in the biosciences, and participate in activities to strengthen their leadership skills and to develop both personally and professionally. They complete a MARC thesis and also apply for College Honors. Finally, they are introduced to a broad range of scientific disciplines and are provided with networking opportunities with representatives of some of the nation's top research universities.  It is the goal and the hope of program staff that all of our students obtain doctoral school admission, successfully complete their degrees, and pursue satisfying research careers.