Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC)
New MARC applications from rising sophomores and juniors for the 2025/2026 cycle will be accepted starting in November 2024. Two information sessions are scheduled for Dec. 4, 2024 and Jan. 8, 2025. Both sessions will be virtual and take place at 5:30 p.m. For questions about the program or the information sessions, please reach out to Dr. Tucker at marc@wayne.edu.
The Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC) Program at Wayne State University is a dynamic scholarship program designed to promote broad participation in the biomedical research workforce by strengthening research training environments and expanding the pool of well-trained students who complete their baccalaureate degrees and transition into and complete biomedical, research-focused higher degree programs.
MARC Program
The MARC scholarship program is for students in their junior and senior years at WSU. MARC scholars receive a full-tuition scholarship and receive a stipend for their participation in research. In addition to the paid year-round laboratory research experience, scholars will be part of the MARC learning community focused on student success, discussion of issues related to biomedical research careers and professional development. Scholars will also receive no-cost enrollment in a responsible conduct of research course.
Pre-MARC Program
The goal of the Pre-MARC Program is to introduce students to research careers. The Pre-MARC Program is for students in their sophomore year at WSU. Students selected for the Pre-MARC Program will participate in the MARC learning community and will receive no-cost enrollment in an Introduction to Research Practice course. Participation in the Pre-MARC Program is not a requirement for application to the MARC Program but is strongly encouraged.
Pre-MARC and MARC scholar program eligibility
- U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled at WSU
- GPA of at least 3.2
- Having one of the following declared majors: biochemistry and chemical biology, biology, biomedical engineering, biomedical physics, chemical engineering, chemistry, environmental science/geology, neuroscience, nutrition and food science, math, public health, psychology
- Goal of attending a Ph.D. program in the biomedical sciences
- Strong commitment to succeed at WSU and to uphold the goals of the MARC Program
Success stories
Our graduates have entered Ph.D. programs at the following institutions:
- Translational Neuroscience at Wayne State University
- Neuroscience at Wake Forest University Medical School
- Bioengineering at University of California, San Diego
- Chemistry at Emory University and Wayne State University
- Clinical Psychology at Michigan State University
- Communication and Media at University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
One graduate has entered a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program at Michigan State University, three others entered the biomedical research workforce and another alum is employed in a pediatric medical practice.
MARC Application
The MARC Program at Wayne State seeks to increase and broaden the biomedical research workforce of the future. Participating undergraduates gain comprehensive research training, benefit from close professional mentorship, and get help transitioning to biomedical, research-focused Ph.D. programs.