Program Update
Our program recently transitioned to a new model, PROPEL, allowing us to continue serving biomedical workforce training needs at OHSU. With the support of Solving For Science, National PROPEL, and OHSU's Research and Innovation Office, we launched our first PROPEL cohort in Fall 2025. Learn more about our current cohort.
We provide educational and professional development for research employees currently working at OHSU who seek independent research experience before entering biomedical PhD programs. Through structured programming and mentorship, we help scholars strengthen their research abilities, expand career awareness, and build communication skills essential for success in doctoral training. Faculty mentors host postbac scholars in their labs, where scholars are employed as research assistants and receive salary and benefits.
Prospective PROPEL applicants are encouraged to apply to RA positions at OHSU and/or contact faculty to inquire about hiring opportunities. Our 2026 - 2027 application will close on Friday May 29th, 11:59 PM (PT).
Please contact preptograd@ohsu.edu with any questions.
Scholar Testimonials
PREP helped me gain the "confidence to speak about myself in a way where I didn’t feel I needed to be someone else or become someone different. PREP empowers you to be yourself in these [academic] spaces."
- 2021 PREP Scholar
"Integrating us into the graduate student community, helped me see [grad school] was something I could do too.”
-Alumni, Focus Group Session 2024
Congratulations!
We are delighted to congratulate Dennisha King, Nina Luong, and Yessica Santana on the successful defense of their dissertations this year. Each has made meaningful contributions to their field through years of focused research, scientific inquiry, and perseverance. We recognize this significant milestone in their careers and look forward to their continued impact as emerging scientists and scholars.