Caption (from left): Broderick Bellard, Judith Dike, Sade Graves, Megan Leak, Ariana Martin, Mian Pan, Brian Strong and Kweku White
We are proud to announce the 2025 NIH R25 Scholars, an exceptional group of students selected for their dedication to biomedical data science and bioinformatics. This prestigious program, supported by the National Institutes of Health National Library of Medicine (NIH), provides transformative research training to prepare the next generation of leaders in health-related data science.
A Transformative Research Opportunity
From May 27 to August 1, 2025, these scholars will engage in an intensive 10-week program featuring mentored research with faculty from Meharry Medical College, Fisk University, and Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The program includes professional development workshops, a $10,000 stipend, conference travel funding, and on-campus housing options for out-of-town participants.
“We are excited to welcome this year’s NIH R25 Scholars,” says Dean Fortune S. Mhlanga, dean of Meharry SACS. “Their work will contribute to meaningful advancements in biomedical data science, and we look forward to supporting their growth as future leaders in the field.”
“Our purpose is clear —” says Dean F Fortune S. Mhlanga, dean of Meharry SACS, “ —to prepare students from a variety of backgrounds for success in biomedical data science and bioinformatics through strong academic and professional training.”
Breaking Barriers in Health Science
As the only HBCU serving as principal on an NIH R25 grant, Meharry Medical College continues its legacy of empowering underrepresented scholars in STEM. Through partnership, this initiative bridges excellence with opportunity – equipping scholars with cutting-edge research experience, career development and access to a powerful network of leading institutions in the field.
To learn more about the NIH R25 program, visit sacsmeharry.org/nihr25scholars.
