{"id":10837,"date":"2026-02-04T10:55:56","date_gmt":"2026-02-04T15:55:56","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/health.uconn.edu\/regenerative-engineering-institute?page_id=10837"},"modified":"2026-02-17T13:56:37","modified_gmt":"2026-02-17T18:56:37","slug":"young-innovative-investigator-program","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/health.uconn.edu\/regenerative-engineering-institute\/young-innovative-investigator-program\/","title":{"rendered":"Young Innovative Investigator Program (YIIP)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Graduate Certificate of Research Experience in Biomedical Science and Master of Science in Biomedical Science Program<\/h2>\n

The only program of its kind at the University of Connecticut, the\u00a0Young Innovative Investigator Program (YIIP)<\/strong>\u00a0is a unique and intensive 2-year program of the\u00a0Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering<\/a>\u00a0which aims to develop the next generation of innovative scientists by providing academic training to individuals dedicated to pursuing careers as scientists and scholars in biological and biomedical science. The program is specifically focused on recruiting underrepresented students to contribute towards developing a sustainable pipeline to increase diversity among the pool of academic scientists. YIIP provides tools for scholars to conduct research, succeed in an academic environment, and become competitive candidates for medical school or graduate school. YIIP Scholars will acquire the expertise necessary to obtain a Ph.D., M.D.\/Ph.D., or M.D.<\/p>\n

YIIP is an intensive research program for college graduates comprised of graduate level coursework and supervised research in biomedical laboratories on the UConn Health campus. It provides individualized mentorship, academic support, and career guidance. YIIP Scholars are employed as Graduate Assistants who earn a stipend and also qualify for health insurance coverage. In addition, the tuition expense and fees associated with required graduate level courses are waived. Upon successful completion of year one, scholars obtain a\u00a0Graduate Certificate of Research Experience in Biomedical Science<\/strong>. In year two, Scholars who meet the academic qualifications are invited to pursue a\u00a0Master of Science in Biomedical Science\u00a0<\/strong>involving innovative mentored research.<\/p>\n

Mentorship<\/strong><\/h2>\n

All YIIP Scholars are provided a team of mentors to guide them through their research and graduate education experience. Each scholar\u2019s Lab Mentor (PI) will coordinate their efforts with their graduate student\u2019s\u00a0M1 Mentor<\/a>. Additional mentors include faculty members from within and outside their department, graduate school leadership, and diversity team members.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

Seminar Series<\/strong><\/h2>\n

All YIIP Scholars are required to attend bi-weekly seminars presented by UConn faculty members. Seminar topics include: Biostatistics and Data Analytics, Community Engagement, Covid-19 and Effects on the Conduct of Science, CV and Personal Statement, Health Justice and Diversity in Medical School Admissions, Mentor\/Mentee Relationship, Preparing for Medical and Graduate School, Presenting at Scientific Conferences, Publishing in Academic Journals, Reading Scientific Literature, Research Ethics and the Role of the Institutional Review Board, Scientific Writing, and Translational Research.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

<\/h1>\n

Scholar Testimonials<\/strong><\/h1>\n

\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"\"<\/div>

Marc Merriman, Jr.<\/strong>
\nMaster of Science Graduate, Spring 2024<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"Don't confuse motion with progress.\" - Cato T. Laurencin, MD, PhD<\/em><\/p>\n

\"One of the first words told to me upon entering the Young Innovative Investigator Program (YIIP) was this quote, and I held it true to me throughout my progression in the program.<\/p>\n

I chose this program because of its commitment to preparing underrepresented minority students to become excellent candidates for Medical School and Physician Scientist Training Programs (MD\/PhD). The support and guidance throughout this program are unmatched\u2014from Dr. Ruano, Dr. Wu, the Cato T. Laurencin Institute staff and faculty, my M1 mentors, and especially Dr. Laurencin (The G.O.A.T.), who opened the doors of his laboratory, his heart, and his wisdom, teaching me life lessons that I'll always remember.<\/p>\n

The Young Innovative Investigator Program (YIIP) catapulted me into my journey of becoming the physician scientist I aspire to be. Beyond the basic science exposure, I learned about the importance and steps required to translate findings from the bench to the bedside, which is the goal of physician scientists. In a sense, I was able to peek into my aspiring career from the perspective and position of a master's student. The program also permitted me to pursue my interest outside of academia by serving the community through the avenue of the Just Us Moving Program (JUMP) and the Hartford Urban League.<\/p>\n

I will forever be grateful for the love, knowledge, support, and opportunities that I was granted throughout this program.\"<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"photo<\/div>

Reinier Gonz\u00e1lez Heredia<\/strong>
\nMaster of Science Graduate, Spring 2024<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"These past two years in the Young Innovative Investigator Program have completely transformed my understanding of what a physician scientist is and does. The mentorship, research experience and community given by the program have been indispensable in my journey into medical school as an aspiring physician scientist. It was a challenging journey that has given me incredible opportunities such as extensive public speaking in an academic context, scientific publications, patents, and conference experiences. As I move further into my career as a physician scientist I grow thankful for the strong scientific foundation the program helped me lay. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The support and guidance offered throughout this program have been outstanding, with direct mentorship from distinguished physicians and scientists such as Dr. Rua\u00f1o, Dr. Laurencin, and Dr. Nair, as well as the staff and faculty of the Cato T. Laurencin Institute. The YIIP experience has been unparalleled and is one I would not trade for anything.\"<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"\"<\/div>

Taraje Whitfield<\/strong>
\nMaster of Science Graduate, Spring 2024<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"These past two years in the Young Innovative Investigator Program (YIIP) have been nothing short of a blessing to me. If I could go back in time, I would choose this program one thousand times over. YIIP gave me so many wonderful opportunities I cannot see myself getting elsewhere. I had the chance to conduct\/publish amazing research, travel for conferences, take high-level courses, shadow doctors in the clinic, prepare for medical school, involve myself in community service projects, and do just about anything I wanted in terms of gaining meaningful experiences while pursuing a master\u2019s degree.<\/p>\n

I will be forever grateful to Dr. Laurencin, not only for YIIP, but also for the invaluable mentorship I have received from him and the YIIP staff that is dedicated to making a difference by providing immense support for underrepresented students in research\/medicine. I appreciate the transformative nature of the program that has matured me into the scholar I am today. I feel very prepared from my experiences here to achieve my goals of becoming a physician-scientist, and when I get there, I hope to offer a similar level of guidance to the next generation of doctors and scientists.\"<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

STEPHANIE CHINWO<\/strong>
\nMaster of Science Graduate,<\/span>
\nSpring 2023<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I reflect on my two years in the Young Innovative Investigator Program (YIIP), I realize that the experience not only prepared me for my future aspirations as a physician but also exposed me to so many wonderful opportunities that allowed me to realize my desire to combine research and community service. Through classes, seminars, service and the support of my mentors and peers, I was challenged to grow personally and professionally in the field of biomedical sciences. Thanks to YIIP, I have developed skills in collaboration, communication, and innovation that will carry me through not only medical school but the rest of my career as a physician scientist.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

SANDRO CLOISEAU<\/strong>
\nMaster of Science Graduate,<\/span>
\nSpring 2023<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe Young Innovative Investigator Program granted me the opportunity to conduct groundbreaking research in the field of Biomedical Science. It was a joyous experience to be around distinguished faculty, staff, and students who valued the advancement of science to positively improve the world through scientific research. In addition to the tremendous support from my mentors, the diverse and friendly environment made this a monumental experience I will never forget. I have participated in many scientific conversations with students and faculty from various backgrounds which has provided me with unique perspectives on my future aspirations of becoming a physician-scientist and an educator. I plan to apply these lessons and professional skills as I continue my academic journey. Thank you, YIIP!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

ROMOYE SOHAN<\/strong>
\nMaster of Science Graduate,<\/span>
\nSpring 2023<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy time in the Young Innovative Investigators Program (YIIP) can only be termed transformative. I entered the program as a bright-eyed, bushy-tailed undergraduate in search of scientific experience, and I gained that and more from this program. YIIP allowed me to further my education and resources and continue building my passion for medicine through various community outreach opportunities (JUMP). I also garnered a support system of colleagues and mentors that encouraged me towards a successful path, which enabled me to complete my master's degree. My YIIP journey has enhanced my growth into becoming a more confident, tenacious, and curious scholar, and I could not be more thankful.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

Curriculum Year 1<\/h3>

In year one, YIIP Scholars focus on completing laboratory research and coursework to achieve a Graduate Certificate of Research Experience in Biomedical Science. This experience provides extensive laboratory research findings which serve as the basis for development of the Master's thesis.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/o:p><\/span>At least 15 credits are required for the Graduate Certificate with a minimum overall GPA of 3.00.<\/o:p><\/span><\/p>\n

Fall Term<\/u><\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Credits<\/u><\/strong>
\nLaboratory Rotation\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 3
\nJournal Club - Graduate Seminar\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a01
\nMolecular Basis of Disease\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a02<\/p>\n

Spring Term<\/u><\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Credits<\/u><\/strong>
\nLaboratory Rotation\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a04
\nJournal Club - Graduate Seminar\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 1
\nMolecular Basis of Disease\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 1
\nResponsible Conduct in Research\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 3
\nCritical Issues Involving the\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a01
\nScientific Publication:
\nThe Scientific Review<\/p>\n

Total Year\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 15<\/h4>\n
\n

 <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

Curriculum Year 2*<\/h3>

Over the two-year program, at least 30 credits in total are required for the Master's Pan of Study (A) <\/span> with a minimum overall GPA of 3.00. These must include at least nine hours of GRAD 5950 (Master's Thesis Research) and at least 21 credits of content coursework (all courses except those with a GRAD designation). In addition a public thesis defense is required to complete the master's degree.<\/span><\/p>\n

*Only current YIIP scholars who complete Year 1 of the program are eligible to apply to the UConn Graduate School's Master of Science in Biomedical Science degree.<\/p>\n

Fall Term<\/u><\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Credits<\/u><\/strong>
\nMaster's Research Thesis\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 4
\nJournal Club - Graduate Seminar\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a01
\nElective Graduate School Course\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 2
\nIndependent Study\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 2<\/p>\n

Spring Term<\/u><\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Credits<\/u><\/strong>
\nMaster's Research Thesis\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 5
\nJournal Club - Graduate Seminar\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 1<\/p>\n

Total Year\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a015<\/h4>\n
\n

 <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

Year 1 YIIP Scholars<\/strong><\/h1>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Gabriella Chatman
\n<\/strong>Penn State University Park
\nBS; Biochemistry & Molecular Biology<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Michael Ruttlen, Jr.
\n<\/strong>Princeton University
\nBA; Molecular Biology<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"\"<\/a>Nathaniel Rodney
\n<\/strong>University of Connecticut
\nBSE; Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering<\/p>\n

\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

Year 2 YIIP Scholars<\/strong><\/h1>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Ryeim Ansaf
\n<\/b>Colorado State University<\/span>
\nB.Sc.; Biology
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Lab Preceptor: Ali Tamayol, Ph.D.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Srivaibhav Gudipudi<\/span>
\n<\/b>University of Connecticut<\/span>
\nB.S.; Chemical\/Biomolecular Engineering<\/span><\/p>\n

Lab Preceptor:
\nSir Cato T. Laurencin, M.D., Ph.D., KCSL<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Zaliya Anthony
\n<\/strong>Xavier University of Louisiana
\nB.S.; Biology<\/p>\n

Lab Preceptor:
\nSir Cato T. Laurencin, M.D., Ph.D., KCSL<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Caleb Womack
\n<\/b>Xavier University of Lousiana<\/span>
\nB.S.; Biology<\/span><\/p>\n

Lab Preceptor:
\nSir Cato T. Laurencin, M.D., Ph.D., KCSL<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Arianna Cedeno
\n<\/b>University of Connecticut<\/span>
\nB.S.; Molecular and Cell Biology
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Lab Preceptor: Caroline N Dealy, Ph.D.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

Former YIIP Scholars<\/strong><\/h1>\n

Cohort 9<\/strong><\/p>\n