Diversity in Science- Graduate Diversity Enrichment Program Grant

The Graduate Diversity Enrichment Program (GDEP), funded by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, aims to enhance diversity in science by providing $5,000 over two years to PhD students enrolled in North Carolina institutions. This initiative supports travel to conferences, research-related expenses, and promotes participation in peer networks. GDEP is designed for second to fifth-year PhD candidates in STEM fields who have demonstrated a commitment to equal access and opportunity in their academic and personal experiences.

Graduate Diversity Enrichment Program (GDEP)
To address access to enrichment opportunities and supporting resources, BWF is committed to funding the next generation of scientists and researchers and seeks to support PhD students in efforts to increase diversity in science. The primary goal of the Graduate Diversity Enrichment Program (GDEP) is to enhance the graduate student experience and provide early exposure to various professional environments and networks for which future research and/or professoriate opportunities might manifest.
Funds will support the following:
Activities for the graduate student to travel and participate in or present at conferences, workshops, courses and training. Costs associated with the purchase of equipment, materials and supplies related to their research, presentation, short course enrollment, workshops and training.Participation in a peer network system of diverse graduate students.
About The Award
The Graduate Diversity Enrichment Program provides $5,000 over two years to provide PhD students (enrolled in NC Institutions of Higher Education) opportunities for greater science and research enrichment experiences. Up to ten awards will be granted for the 2025-2027 period.
Please see FAQs for additional guidelines.

Eligibility

Must be a graduate PhD student enrolled at a North Carolina Institution of Higher Education (public or private) and within their 2nd to 5th year of studies at the time of application. Must be post preliminary/qualifying exams at the time of application.Must be nominated by a graduate advisor at the nominating institution. Applications must be approved by an official responsible for sponsored programs (generally from the grants office, office of research, or office of sponsored programs) at the degree granting institution. Must have demonstrated a commitment to promoting equal access and opportunity through their activities, background and life experiences, which may be informed by someone’s membership in groups that have been historically underrepresented in science, including, as examples, those from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, women, first-generation college students, those from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds, those from rural areas, and persons with disabilities.Must be a citizen of the United States or Canada (at the time of application).Must be a full time graduate student The program is appropriate for PhD candidates who are STEM majors.