Fellows from the IU Indianapolis Post-baccalaureate Research Education Program (IPREP) recently showcased their talents on a national stage during the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists (ABRCMS).
ABRCMS is one of the largest, most prestigious events of its kind, bringing together aspiring scientists from underrepresented backgrounds to present research, connect with experts, and explore opportunities with graduate and professional schools. This year’s event, held in Pittsburgh in mid-November, attracted more than 6,900 participants from across the U.S. and beyond.
For many attendees, ABRCMS is an opportunity to present groundbreaking research in fields such as molecular biology and public health while receiving valuable feedback from professionals and peers. The event highlights the growing impact of diverse voices in science, fostering a new generation of researchers committed to advancing health care and innovation.
IPREP fellows consistently stand out, competing against 2,000-plus research abstracts submitted to ABRCMS annually. This year, Gabriel Ramirez and Ellie Nnatubeugo upheld IPREP’s tradition of excellence, contributing to a legacy that includes six Best Poster Awards.
Ramirez, mentored by Lilian Plotkin, Ph.D., at the IU School of Medicine, investigated the role of sex chromosomes in bone cell differentiation and their impact on bone health differences between sexes—independent of hormonal influences. He was recognized in the cell biology category. Nnatubeugo, guided by Peggy Stockdale, Ph.D., and Jessica Kiebler, Ph.D., at the IU School of Science, focused on empathy training’s effects on men’s understanding of workplace sexual harassment, amplifying victims’ experiences through narratives. She earned the top spot in the social & behavioral sciences and public health category. Both projects were chosen and celebrated for their scientific depth and real-world significance.
Beyond awards, IPREP alumni achieve remarkable success, including postdoctoral research, entrepreneurship, industry roles and M.D./Ph.D. program entry. Many have received honors such as National Science Foundation graduate fellowships or pursued doctoral studies at institutions including the University of Michigan, Emory University and Georgia Tech. Approximately 20 percent of fellows continue their academic journey at IU Indianapolis, while others advance to renowned universities nationwide.
Since 2014, the National Institute of General Medical Sciences at the National Institutes of Health has funded IPREP through grants, enabling IU Indianapolis students to gain direct research experience, faculty mentorship and professional development opportunities. IPREP further fosters leadership, confidence and communication skills, equipping fellows to excel.
As IPREP continues to nurture scientists, the achievements of its fellows affirm the program’s role as a catalyst to advancing health care and innovation. The success story is far from over—IPREP fellows are poised to redefine the future of biomedical science, one discovery at a time.
IPREP applications are currently open for early decision. Recent college graduates are encouraged to preview eligibility and apply.
