Biomedical Research Training Center | UPR Río Piedras

Universidad de Puerto Rico, Recinto de Río PiedrasFacultad de Ciencias Naturales
BRTC logoBiomedical ResearchTraining Center

NIH-NIGMS Biomedical Undergraduate Research Training (BURT) · T34

Preparing UPR Río Piedras undergraduates for careers in biomedical research.

The Biomedical Research Training Center supports undergraduates through mentored research, skills training and career development, from the bachelor’s degree to a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D.

NIH-NIGMSUndergraduate research training initiative
Final 2–3 yearsFull-time support during your bachelor’s
8+ week summerResearch experience, ideally at another institution
Ph.D. · M.D./Ph.D.The path we prepare you for
About the center

A home for undergraduate research training at UPR Río Piedras

The BRTC builds on years of research training through the former MARC and RISE programs. Today the center leads the campus’s undergraduate research training effort under the NIH-NIGMS BURT (T34) initiative, helping students complete a biomedical degree and move on to research-focused graduate studies.

BURT Program

Who can apply and what you receive

Eligibility

  • U.S. citizen, noncitizen national or lawful permanent resident
  • Enrolled full-time in a biomedically related bachelor’s program at UPR Río Piedras
  • In the final 2–3 years of undergraduate studies
  • Strong interest in a research career and in pursuing a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D.

What trainees receive

  • Stipend at NIH NRSA undergraduate levels
  • Support for tuition and fees
  • Funds to present at scientific meetings
  • A funded summer research experience of at least 8 weeks, with per diem and travel
  • Mentoring, cohort activities and career guidance
Training

What the program looks like

01Mentored researchAuthentic research in a faculty lab, with growing independence over time.
02Summer research experienceAt least 8 weeks of research, ideally at another institution, to broaden your training.
03Rigor and research skillsScientific reasoning, experimental design, data analysis and reproducibility.
04Responsible conduct of researchIn-person training in research ethics and integrity.
05Science communicationPresent your work at conferences and to different audiences, as part of a cohort.
06Career developmentExplore research careers, build professional skills and prepare for graduate admissions.

Ready to apply?

Selection looks at the whole applicant, not only GPA. Application dates and forms will be announced soon. Contact us to receive updates.

News & legacy

Where our students go next

Alumni of the MARC and RISE programs have continued to graduate programs across the country. Their outcomes are kept here as part of the center’s history.

Student outcomes (2002 – present)Former RISE program · PDFView reports →Events & announcementsSeminars, workshops and activitiesSee calendar →
Contact

Visit or write to the BRTC

Questions about eligibility, applications or events? We’re happy to help.

Address17 Ave. Universidad, Ste.1701
San Juan PR, 00925-2537
Phone787-764-0000Exts. 88300, 88301
OfficeFacundo Bueso bldg. FB-300