The PRISM Summer Institute 2027 at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science will be held virtually June 7–12, 2027, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. PDT.
This online faculty development program provides early-career faculty with NIH grant readiness training, mentorship, small-group science discussions, and peer networking through Zoom-based sessions.
PRISM prepares early-career faculty to become successful NIH principal investigators in collaborative biomedical research focused on improving health across populations.
Required qualifications
Commitment to biomedical research that improves population health outcomes.
Ability to prepare a two-page research prospectus focused on biomedical research.
Prior research experience with publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Participation in all 6 days of the Institute, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM PDT, completion of required deliverables, and annual follow-up data collection.
Preferred qualifications
Experience conducting biomedical research.
Prior success in obtaining small or exploratory research funding (state, local, or institutional grants).
Research experience across populations.
Seminar Topics
Faculty development seminars focus on NIH grant preparation, research design, and professional growth.
Topics include:
Understanding NIH institutes, funding mechanisms, application requirements, and the peer review process
Strategies for writing clear, compelling, and competitive NIH grant proposals
Selecting appropriate qualitative and quantitative research methods
Fundamentals of experimental design and approaches to avoid common methodological errors
Developing a data analysis plan, including the use of power analysis
Building effective mentoring relationships with NIH-funded investigators
Identifying and overcoming institutional barriers to NIH grant submissions
Key practical and ethical considerations in conducting research
Approaches for balancing research, career development, and personal well-being
Deliverables for the PRISM Institute
Before the Institute begins, participants complete several preparatory steps to ensure they are fully ready to engage in the training experience.
Preparation includes:
Submitting a biographical sketch and professional photo
Signing the media release form
Signing confidentiality and nondisclosure agreements
Completing the pre-Institute self-assessment
Reviewing introductory materials and videos on grant development
Submitting a brief literature review
Submitting a draft professional development plan
Submitting a preliminary draft of specific aims
Establishing an NCBI account link
During the Institute
Throughout the Institute, participants take part in structured workshops and guided activities that strengthen their research skills and refine their proposal materials. Required activities include:
Completing daily online program feedback
Finalizing the professional development plan
Refining the specific aims page
Developing an approach outline for each specific aim
Presenting specific aims, key lessons learned, and anticipated next steps
After the Institute
Following the Institute, participants continue to receive support as they move toward grant development and future submissions. Post-Institute expectations include:
Completing the post-assessment
Completing the PRISM annual survey and submitting an updated CV as needed after participation
Applying to the PRISM Institute
The Summer 2027 PRISM Institute application is now open.
