Key components of the fully-funded 8-week summer EPGRAD Program:

Education

Students will participate in short courses covering fundamental concepts in epidemiology and data science in the context of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias research. Students will also have opportunities to participate in seminars, journal clubs, and field trips as well as graduate school admissions counseling, training in the responsible conduct of research, and training in skills essential for graduate school success.

Research

Students will work with faculty mentors on a primary research project based on the Framingham Heart Study Brain Aging Program and present their findings at an end-of-program research symposium. Research projects will require the use of epidemiologic and data science skills learned during the program.

Networking and Community

Students will have many opportunities to network with other EPGRAD Program participants and faculty, attend fun social events in Washington and Boston, and stay connected after the summer program is completed. 2025 Program Dates: The program will run from June 01 to July 26, 2025. The first 4 weeks (June 01 – June 28) will take place at the George Washington University in Washington, DC and the last 4 weeks (June 29 – July 26) will take place at Boston University in Boston, MA. All EPGRAD participants are expected to participate full-time during the 8-week program.

Details on Travel, Housing, Meals, and Stipend:

Travel

Travel to Washington, DC at the start of the program and travel from Boston, MA at the end of the program will be arranged and funded for all participants once they are accepted into the program. Travel between Washington, DC and Boston, MA will also be arranged and funded. In addition, SmartTrip and CharlieCard public transportation passes will be provided to students during the 8-week program.

Housing

Student housing for the entire 8-week program will be provided in student dormitories on the George Washington University and Boston University campuses.

Meals

All students will receive a GWorld Card with funds loaded for purchasing three meals per day on the George Washington University campus and Terrier Cards with funds loaded to purchase three meals per day on the Boston University campus.

Stipend

 EPGRAD participants will receive a stipend of $2800 for the 8-week period.

Total compensation for the summer, including stipend, travel, meals, and housing amounts to over $5000.

Funding for EPGRAD is provided by the National Institutes of Health through grant R25AG081177. 

To be eligible to participate in the EPGRAD Program, applicants must:

• Be enrolled in and have completed at least one year as an undergraduate in good standing at an accredited college or university in the US but should not have graduated by the start of the program (i.e., should be a rising sophomore, junior, or senior). They may also be enrolled at a community or junior college, completing at least three courses per academic term, with at least 30 credits completed by the start of the EPGRAD Program.
• Have completed at least one semester of precalculus or higher-level mathematics, regardless of major. AP Calculus and/or AP Statistics credit will count towards this requirement.
• Be a citizen or non-citizen national of the US or have been admitted for permanent residence.

Applications from all eligible applicants will be considered. 

We encourage applications from eligible interested students who fall into one or more of the categories considered as “Underrepresented Populations in the U.S. Biomedical, Clinical, Behavioral and Social Sciences Research Enterprise” (based on the Notice of NIH’s Interest in Diversity), which include:

1. Individuals from racial and ethnic groups that have been shown by the National Science Foundation to be underrepresented in health-related sciences on a national basis (see data at http://www.nsf.gov/statistics/showpub.cfm?TopID=2&SubID=27) and the report Women, Minorities, and Persons with Disabilities in Science and Engineering). The following racial and ethnic groups have been shown to be underrepresented in biomedical research: Blacks or African Americans, Hispanics or Latinos, American Indians or Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders. In addition, it is recognized that underrepresentation can vary from setting to setting; individuals from racial or ethnic groups that can be demonstrated convincingly to be underrepresented by the grantee institution should be encouraged to participate in NIH programs to enhance diversity. For more information on racial and ethnic categories and definitions, see the OMB Revisions to the Standards for Classification of Federal Data on Race and Ethnicity (https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-1997-10-30/html/97-28653.htm).
2. Individuals with disabilities, who are defined as those with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, as described in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended. See NSF data at, https://www.nsf.gov/statistics/2017/nsf17310/static/data/tab7-5.pdf.
3. Individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, defined as those who meet two or more of the following criteria:
   • Were or currently are homeless, as defined by the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act;
   • Were or currently are in the foster care system, as defined by the Administration for Children and Families;
   • Were eligible for the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program for two or more years;
   • Have/had no parents or legal guardians who completed a bachelor’s degree;
   • Were or currently are eligible for Federal Pell grants;
   • Received support from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women,Infants and Children (WIC) as a parent or child(Definition: https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/wic-eligibility-requirements).
   • Grew up in one of the following areas: a) a U.S. rural area, as designated by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Rural Health Grants Eligibility Analyzer (https://data.hrsa.gov/tools/rural-health), or b) a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services-designated Low-Income and Health Professional Shortage Areas (qualifying zip codes are included in the file). Only one of the two possibilities in last point can be used as a criterion for the disadvantaged background definition.
4. Women: Literature shows that women from the above backgrounds (categories 1, 2, and 3) face particular challenges at the graduate level and beyond in scientific fields. (See, e.g., From the NIH: A Systems Approach to Increasing the Diversity of Biomedical Research Workforce https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5008902/ ).

Leadership Team

Adam Ciarleglio, PhD
Associate Professor, Biostatistics
George Washington University

Sherral Devine, PhD
Assistant Professor, Anatomy & Neurobiology
Boston University

Hugo Aparicio, MD, MPH
Assistant Professor, Neurology
Boston University

Maureen O'Connor, PsyD
Assistant Professor, Neurology
Boston University

Program Staff

Hailey Grace Ames
Program Manager, Framingham Heart Study Brain Aging Program
Boston University

Diane Britton
Fiscal Manager, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics
George Washington University

Stephanie Lee
Program Manager, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics
George Washington University

Mentors and Affiliated Faculty

Rhoda Au, PhD
Professor, Anatomy & Neurobiology
Boston University

Loretta DiPietro, PhD
Professor, Exercise and Nutrition Science
George Washington University

Chunyu Liu, PhD
Associate Professor, Biostatistics
Boston University

Trudy Mallinson, PhD
Associate Professor, Clinical Research and Leadership
George Washington University

Paul Marvar, PhD
Associate Professor, Pharmacology and Physiology
George Washington University

Jesse Mez, MD
Associate Professor, Neurology
Boston University

Paul Ndebele, PhD
Professorial Lecturer, Global Health
George Washington University

Melinda Power, ScD
Associate Professor, Epidemiology
George Washington University

Emma Stapp, PhD
Assistant Professor, Epidemiology
George Washington University

Thor Stein, MD, PhD
Associate Professor, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Boston University

Robert Turner, PhD
Assistant Professor, Clinical Research and Leadership
George Washington University

Meg Ulfers, PhD
Associate Professor, Epidemiology
George Washington University

Nicola Wolfe, PhD
Professorial Lecturer, Psychological and Brain Sciences
George Washington University

Leadership Team

Adam Ciarleglio, PhD
Assistant Professor, Biostatistics
George Washington University

Sherral Devine, PhD
Assistant Professor, Anatomy & Neurobiology
Boston University

Hugo Aparicio, MD, MPH
Assistant Professor, Neurology
Boston University

Maureen O'Connor, PsyD
Assistant Professor, Neurology
Boston University

Program Staff

Hailey Grace Ames
Research Assistant, Framingham Heart Study Brain Aging Program
Boston University

Diane Britton
Fiscal Manager, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics
George Washington University

Stephanie Lee
Program Manager, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics
George Washington University

Mentors and Affiliated Faculty

Loretta DiPietro, PhD
Professor, Exercise and Nutrition Science
George Washington University

Rhoda Au, PhD
Professor, Anatomy & Neurobiology
Boston University

Chunyu Liu, PhD
Associate Professor, Biostatistics
Boston University

Trudy Mallinson, PhD
Associate Professor, Clinical Research and Leadership
George Washington University

Paul Marvar, PhD
Associate Professor, Pharmacology and Physiology
George Washington University

Jesse Mez, MD
Associate Professor, Neurology
Boston University

Paul Ndebele, PhD
Professorial Lecturer, Global Health
George Washington University

Melinda Power, ScD
Associate Professor, Epidemiology
George Washington University

Emma Stapp, PhD
Assistant Professor, Epidemiology
George Washington University

Thor Stein, MD, PhD
Associate Professor, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Boston University

Robert Turner, PhD
Assistant Professor, Clinical Research and Leadership
George Washington University

Meg Ulfers, PhD
Associate Professor, Epidemiology
George Washington University

Nicola Wolfe, PhD
Professorial Lecturer, Psychological and Brain Sciences
George Washington University

EPGRAD 2023

Mia Rivers

 

Mia is an early graduate as of December 2023, receiving her B.S. of Biology from Howard University. She has participated in the HU ADAR program since her freshman year. Her research has heavily focused on pathology and genetic risk for developing Alzheimer’s Disease. After going on a tour of the NIH, organized by EPGRAD, she was inspired to apply for a post-baccalaureate position there. She currently works in Dr. Mindell’s lab within the NINDS. She looks forward to pursuing an education and career in pediatric neurology through an MD/PhD.

Morgan Scott

 

Morgan Scott is a senior Honors Psychology student with a minor in Biology at American University. Her research interests center around studying the relationship between HIV and opioid use disorder, with a particular focus on conceptualizing a potential bidirectional relationship by investigating the neuroanatomical and neurocircuitry overlap between the two pathologies. She was inspired to apply for the EPGRAD program due to her passion for research and advocacy, as well as a personal connection to Alzheimer's disease. Through the program, she received encouragement from her peers and mentors, and was motivated by the knowledge and skills gained from the training. As a result, she is now applying to post-baccalaureate programs in hopes of pursuing an MD/PhD.

Jack White

 

Jack is a senior at the University of Rochester, graduating this Spring with a BS in Neuroscience. His undergraduate research was primarily focused on understanding the glymphatic system (the brain's waste clearance system) and its relationship with sleep, Alzheimer's Disease and drug delivery methods. He has also run clinical studies through a cognitive development lab and conducted MRI and CT experiments while abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark. Jack was inspired by his cohort's visit to the NIH main campus in Bethesda, MD last summer, and he has now accepted a postbac position there to study acquired hearing loss and biomarkers for inner ear injury under the Hertzano Lab (NIDCD). He will conduct research there for the next two years before applying to MD-PhD programs in hopes of becoming a child neurologist

Caleb Franklin

Caleb Franklin is an undergraduate student at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette studying Pre Med Biology and Chemistry. Caleb is interested in pursuing an MD and specializing in either Anesthesiology, Neurology, or Cardio. In Lafayette Caleb is very involved with his community through his Reginald F. Lewis Scholars program and his fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. In his free time, Caleb enjoys working out, listening to music, cooking and finding new ways to improve himself. Through the EPGRAD Experience Caleb was exposed to a multitude of different resources, knowledge and career routes that interested him greatly. He also had a great time exploring the cities of Washington, DC and Boston. From his experience in the program, Caleb was able to bring information and tools back to his home campus and help other students on their career paths.

Mateo Rodriguez

Mateo Rodriguez is part of Howard University's undergraduate class of 2026. He is a biology major from New York on the pre-med track, with endeavors of becoming either a pediatrician or psychiatrist. His research so far is primarily focused on neuroscience and the onset of varying dementias, however he intends on immersing himself in pediatric-related research as he continues his undergraduate studies.

Maheen Nawaz

Maheen Nawaz received her undergraduate degree in Neuroscience from the George Washington University and is currently working on her Master's of Public Health at the Milken Institute School of Public Health at GW. Maheen has previous clinical experience and looks forward to attending medical school in the future.

Debby Onadeko

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Debby Onadeko is a rising senior at Fordham University, studying Biological Sciences with a minor in Psychology on the pre-medical track. As a Nigerian-American, her cultural experiences have driven her desire to become a physician who is passionate about health equity, putting the patient first, and understanding who the patient is as a whole. Through the EPGRAD program, she grew in her research skills and developed an interest in women’s brain health, Alzheimer’s disease, and brain aging. She is currently a research assistant at Fordham University, working on a project that aims to develop a mindset framework to enhance post-traumatic growth in trauma survivors.

EPGRAD 2024

Joanie Mozer

 

Joanie is set to receive her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in Fall 2024. She has extensive experience in clinical treatment settings for mental health and drug addiction, as well as harm reduction for unhoused and HIV-positive populations. Joanie plans to become a licensed trauma therapist and continue her research pursuits, driven by her passion for helping others and advancing the field of psychology.

Simon Park

 

Simon Park is a rising senior at The George Washington University, pursuing a B.S. in Exercise Science with a Pre-Medical Professional Concentration and a minor in Psychological & Brain Sciences. He is strongly interested in human anatomy and physiology under various conditions, such as homeostasis, exercise, and other abnormalities. Simon is particularly intrigued by the psychophysiology behind people's behaviors and conditions, seeking to interpret the connection between the mind and the body to facilitate bodily functions. Building on his experiences as an MCH-LEARN Scholar and a FRESH Study Research Assistant, Simon applied his knowledge in the EPGRAD Program, where he also gained substantial insights into ADRD research, expanded his professional network, and enhanced his professional development skills. After graduating in spring 2025, Simon plans to pursue post-baccalaureate programs and an MD. He aims to integrate principles of physical exercise, nutrition, and personalized care, particularly for children, young adults, and adolescents, to promote lifelong wellness and positively impact their overall well-being.

Omar Alashkar

Omar Alashkar is entering his Junior year at The George Washington University, where he majors in Neuroscience and minors in Emergency Health Services. Volunteering with children and adults diagnosed with a variety of mental or physical disabilities sparked a strong interest in him to conduct research on neurodegenerative diseases, specifically Alzheimer's disease. After his time at the EPGRAD program, he has learned comprehensive information on factors that can increase the chances of dementia and brain pathology through anatomy labs and discussion seminars with Neurologists at the FHS. After graduation in spring 2026, Omar plans to attend medical school. This program has also given Omar the motivation to continue with research in neurodegenerative diseases and help the neurodegenerative community, especially internationally, in understanding biological and environmental aspects as well as prevention techniques. Omar credits the faculty and his cohort for their invaluable support and professional development opportunities, making this research experience profoundly beneficial. He encourages any prospective members of the program to feel free to reach out to him at [+1 (202) 436-1436 / [email protected]].

Sufana Hamid

Sufana Hamid is a rising sophomore at Boston University, studying Neuroscience as a major and Arabic, her native language, as a minor. Hamid is currently pursuing pre-medical studies and plans to attend a Master's program in refugee studies, a post-baccalaureate program, and Medical School. Hamid is particularly drawn to a career in health care where she can provide excellent medical assistance to refugees across the globe. She hopes that a Master's in refugee studies along with working for international justice institutions and refugee assistance programs would provide her with the set of skills needed to give refugees adequate and sustainable care. Hamid is quite interested in neurological research as well. As an undergraduate researcher, she aims to understand the mechanisms of the brain and medicine on a deeper level, obtaining the necessary background for her future medical care. She is especially interested in neurodegenerative diseases, trauma head injuries, and dementias. Hamid is also a nationally awarded writer, artist, and photographer. She finds ways to connect medicine to humanities in her university clubs and personal projects and aims to continue her hobbies along with academia.

EPGRAD 2023

Professor Ciarleglio, Professor Power, and EPGRAD scholars met with Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton at the Capitol

EPGRAD scholars and Professor Ciarleglio visit the NIH campus in Bethesda

Professor Ciarleglio and EPGRAD scholars attend a goodbye dinner prior to departure to Boston University

Scholars surprised the EPGRAD coordinators just after their Symposium at the Boston University Medical School campus with flowers and signed photographs! 

First-time dim sum experience for many of the Scholars at Hei La Moon in Boston’s Chinatown

A hands-on demonstration of gross brain anatomy at the Boston University Medical School – real brains and brain stems included!

Inaugural Program with Undergraduates Launched to Study Alzheimer’s and Dementia

10 scholars attended an inaugural Summer Program from May to July, 2023, launched by GWSPH’s Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics and the Institute for Brain Health & Dementia and Boston University’s Framingham Heart Study-Brain Aging Program. The Expanding the Pipeline to Graduate Research in Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (EPGRAD) scholars spent half their training experience at GW from May 22 to June 16 and the other half at Boston University from June 19 to July 14.

During the four weeks at GW, these young scholars engaged in rigorous activities of research, training, independent study, lectures, labs and seminars on a spectrum of Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) topics from both epidemiological and biostatistical perspectives. They collaborated with GWSPH faculty to seek academic and career mentorship and also met with GWSPH admissions to explore graduate school and careers. GWSPH faculty included Dr. Adam Ciarleglio (DBB), Dr. Melinda Power (DEPI), Dr. Meg Ulfers (DEPI), Loretta DiPietro (DENS), and Dr. Emma K. Stapp (DEPI).

Beyond the classroom, these students visited the Capitol to meet with DC Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton and also toured the National Institutes of Health (NIH) campus in Bethesda. These field trips enabled them to understand the distinct responsibilities of both policymakers and researchers in influencing ADRD research. They also sought to unwind during leisurely excursions to the Washington Nationals baseball game and a National Symphony Orchestra concert to view a performance of “Romeo and Juliet” at the Kennedy Center.

EPGRAD 2024

Coming Soon..