Graduate Certificate of Research Experience in Biomedical Science and Master of Science in Biomedical Science Program
The only program of its kind at the University of Connecticut, the Young Innovative Investigator Program (YIIP) is a unique and intensive 2-year program of the Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering which 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.
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 Graduate Certificate of Research Experience in Biomedical Science. In year two, Scholars who meet the academic qualifications are invited to pursue a Master of Science in Biomedical Science involving innovative mentored research.
Mentorship
All YIIP Scholars are provided a team of mentors to guide them through their research and graduate education experience. Each scholar’s Lab Mentor (PI) will coordinate their efforts with their graduate student’s M1 Mentor. Additional mentors include faculty members from within and outside their department, graduate school leadership, and diversity team members.
Seminar Series
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.
Scholar Testimonials
Marc Merriman, Jr.
Master of Science Graduate, Spring 2024
"Don't confuse motion with progress." - Cato T. Laurencin, MD, PhD
"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.
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—from 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.
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.
I will forever be grateful for the love, knowledge, support, and opportunities that I was granted throughout this program."
Reinier González Heredia
Master of Science Graduate, Spring 2024
"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.
The support and guidance offered throughout this program have been outstanding, with direct mentorship from distinguished physicians and scientists such as Dr. Ruaño, 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."
Taraje Whitfield
Master of Science Graduate, Spring 2024
"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’s degree.
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."
STEPHANIE CHINWO
Master of Science Graduate,
Spring 2023
“When 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.”
SANDRO CLOISEAU
Master of Science Graduate,
Spring 2023
“The 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!”
ROMOYE SOHAN
Master of Science Graduate,
Spring 2023
“My 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.”
Curriculum Year 1
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.
Fall Term Credits
Laboratory Rotation 3
Journal Club - Graduate Seminar 1
Molecular Basis of Disease 2
Spring Term Credits
Laboratory Rotation 4
Journal Club - Graduate Seminar 1
Molecular Basis of Disease 1
Responsible Conduct in Research 3
Critical Issues Involving the 1
Scientific Publication:
The Scientific Review
Total Year 15
Curriculum Year 2*
Over the two-year program, at least 30 credits in total are required for the Master's Pan of Study (A) 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.
*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.
Fall Term Credits
Master's Research Thesis 4
Journal Club - Graduate Seminar 1
Elective Graduate School Course 2
Independent Study 2
Spring Term Credits
Master's Research Thesis 5
Journal Club - Graduate Seminar 1
Total Year 15
Year 2 YIIP Scholars
Kennedy Drake
Xavier University of Louisiana
B.S.; Biology
Refugio Lara, Jr.
Pennsylvania State University
B.S.; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Gina Airoldi
University of Vermont
B.S.; Biomedical Engineering
Year 1 YIIP Scholars
Ryeim Ansaf
Colorado State University
B.Sc.; Biology
Sherley Desir
Southern Connecticut State University
B.S.; Biology
Zaliya Anthony
Xavier University of Louisiana
B.S.; Biology
Srivaibhav Gudipudi
University of Connecticut
B.S.; Chemical/Biomolecular Engineering
Arianna Cedeno
University of Connecticut
B.S.; Molecular and Cell Biology
Caleb Womack
Xavier University of Lousiana
B.S.; Biology
Former YIIP Scholars
Cohort 8
- Yvette Oppong, Cert., 2023-2024: University of Connecticut, BA, Environmental Sciences
Cohort 7
- Reiner González Heredia, MS, 2022-2024: University of Connecticut BS, Molecular and Cell Biology
- Marc Antonio Merriman, MS, 2022-2024: Xavier University of Louisiana, BS, Biology
- Taraje Whitfield, MS, 2022-2024: Princeton University, BA, Molecular Biology
Cohort 6
- Morgan Dawkins, MS, 2022-2023: University of Arkansas B.S., Biomedical Engineering; UConn Graduate School, Biomedical Engineering
- Oyindamola Teniola, MS, 2021-2023: University of Connecticut, B.S.; Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of South Florida
- Romoye Sohan, MS, 2021-2023: University Of Connecticut B,S; Biological Sciences
- Sandro Cloiseau, MS, 2021-2023: University Of Connecticut B,S; Biological Sciences
- Stephanie Chinwo, MS, 2021-2023: University Of Connecticut B,S; Biological Sciences
Cohort 5
- Christina Valera, MS, 2021-2023: University of Connecticut B.S., Physiology & Neurobiology
- David Onwuka, MS, 2021-2023: University of Connecticut B.S., Molecular & Cell Biology; Tufts Medical School
- Kai Clarke, MS, 2020-2022: Florida Institute of Technology B.S., Biomedical Engineering; UConn Graduate School, Biomedical Science
- Mylan Panteah, MD, 2021-2022: New Mexico State University, B.S., Biology; University of North Dakota School of Medicine
- Tebyan Khalfalla, BS, 2020-2022: University of Connecticut, B.S., Physiology & Neurobiology; University of Rochester School of Medicine
Cohort 4
- Luis Loza-Rojas, 2020-2022: University of Connecticut, B.S., Chemical Engineering
Cohort 3
- Jaliyah Peterson, MS, 2018-2021: Spelman College, B.S., Molecular Biology and Biophysics
- Savannah Samuel, BS, 2020-2021: Xavier University of Louisiana, B.S., Chemistry
- Anisha Lewis, MD, 2018-2020: Brown University, B.A., Public Health; UConn School of Medicine
- John Garcia, MS, MPH, 2018-2020: University of Connecticut, B.S., Biological Sciences; Quinnipiac School of Medicine
- Kaussar Rahman, MS, 2019-2020: Mount Holyoke College, B.S., Biology
- Joshua Green, DPM 2018-2019: Southern Connecticut State University, Biochemistry, B.S., Temple School of Podiatric Medicine
Cohort 2
- Aundrya Montgomery, MS, 2016-2019: Alabama State University, B.S., Biology/Pre-Health; University of Connecticut
- Shania Aponte-Paris, MS, 2016-2019: Universidad Adventista de los Antilles, B.S., Biology; Universidad Central del Caribe School of Medicine
- Archibald Agyekum-Yamoah, MD, MS, 2016-2018: University of Ghana, B.S., Biology; Southern Connecticut State University, B.S., Biochemistry and Mathematics; University of Pittsburgh College of Medicine, Captain. United States Air Force (USAF)
- Aaliyah Riccardi, MD, 2016-2017: University of Connecticut, B.S., Biology; University of Connecticut School of Medicine
Cohort 1
- Akilah Plair, ND, MS, 2014-2016: Southern Connecticut State University, B.S., Biochemistry; University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine
- La Shondra Ellis, MS, 2014-2016: Oakwood College, B.S., Biology
- Melissa Carr-Reynolds, MS, 2014-2016: Spelman College, B.S., Biology
- Nilse Dos Santos, MD, MS, 2014-2016: University of Rhode Island, B.S., Biological Sciences; Penn State College of Medicine
- Sandra Lopez, DMD, MS, 2014-2016: University of Connecticut, B.S., Biological Sciences; Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
- Trisha Kwarko, MD, MS, 2014-2016: University of Connecticut, B.S., Allied Health Sciences; UConn School of Medicine
YIIP Alumni - Keep in Touch
If you have recently moved, changed jobs, retired, earned an advanced degree, or celebrated a career milestone, please contact Program Manager Jolene Monahan Wilding at monahanwilding@uchc.edu. This information will be used to update your record in our alumni database.
Application Process and Requirements
The application period for the Fall 2025 cohort has closed. We will enter recruitment in January 2026 for the Fall 2026 cohort.
The Young Innovative Investigator Program (YIIP) is a 2-year program of The Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering which 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 and/or graduate school. YIIP Scholars will acquire the expertise necessary to obtain a Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., or M.D.
Overview:
YIIP is an intensive research program for college graduates comprised of graduate level coursework and mentored research in biomedical laboratories at the University of Connecticut (Farmington and Storrs campuses). It provides individualized mentorship, academic support, and career guidance. YIIP Scholars earn a stipend and qualify for health insurance coverage. In addition, some tuition expenses and fees associated with required graduate level courses are waived. Upon successful completion of year one, scholars obtain a Graduate Certificate of Research Experience in Biomedical Science. In year two, Scholars who meet the academic qualifications pursue a Master of Science in Biomedical Science involving innovative mentored research.
Eligibility:
The selection committee is committed to the principle of IDEAL, which stands for Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Anti-racism, and Learning, as a plan to achieve justice and equity. A priority for the program is increasing (1) individuals traditionally underrepresented and marginalized in the biomedical sciences and (2) first-generation students. For more information about IDEAL please visit: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40615-020-00924-2.
All applicants must:
- Have completed a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum of an overall 3.0 GPA.
- Demonstrate high motivation and potential to become a basic scientist with a goal of attaining a Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., or M.D.
- Meet all eligibility criteria and have a high probability of fulfilling the social and educational goals of this program.
- Be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States.
For more information, please visit our website: https://health.uconn.edu/regenerative-engineering-institute/young-innovative-investigator-program/ or contact:
Jolene Monahan Wilding
Program Manager
monahanwilding@uchc.edu
or
Gualberto Ruaño, M.D., Ph.D.
Assistant Director, Special Projects