The NARI Program: Cultivating the Next Generation of Native American Scientists
Bridging scientific excellence and cultural heritage to address health disparities in Indigenous communities
Introduction: Where Science Meets Heritage
In the heart of Salt Lake City, an innovative program at the University of Utah is quietly transforming the future of scientific research while honoring deep cultural traditions. The Native American Summer Research Internship (NARI) represents a critical bridge between two worlds that have too often remained separate: cutting-edge health science research and Native American cultural heritage.
For undergraduate students from Native American and Alaska Native backgrounds, this isn't just another summer internship—it's a transformative experience that supports both their academic ambitions and personal growth, creating a new generation of scientists who bring unique perspectives to addressing health disparities in Indigenous communities 1 6 .
By providing a supportive environment where students can engage in world-class research while exploring their cultural identities, NARI addresses a crucial gap in the scientific landscape.
The program received the University of Utah's Equity and Diversity Award in 2013 and the Outstanding Student Support National Program Award from the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators in 2021, recognizing its innovative approach to creating inclusive scientific spaces 1 .
The NARI Program: An Overview
Established at the University of Utah, NARI is a 10-week, paid summer internship federally funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) 1 6 . The program specifically targets undergraduate junior and senior students who are interested in health science research and rural health 1 . What makes NARI exceptional is its dual focus on providing intensive research experiences while simultaneously supporting students' cultural identities and professional development 6 .
The Student Experience: A Journey of Discovery
Research Immersion
NARI participants engage in approximately 40 hours per week of internship activities, with about 30 hours dedicated to hands-on research under the guidance of world-class research faculty at the University of Utah 6 . Students work in both laboratory and clinical settings, gaining practical experience that provides invaluable insight into the scientific process 6 8 .
The research experience is carefully structured to ensure students receive appropriate mentorship while gradually increasing their independence. Each student is matched with a research mentor whose expertise aligns with the student's interests, facilitating a productive mentor-mentee relationship that often continues beyond the summer program 6 .
Professional Development and Cultural Engagement
Beyond the laboratory, NARI dedicates approximately 10 hours per week to academic and professional development activities 6 . These include:
Inside the Research: A Health Disparities Case Study
To understand the meaningful work NARI students engage in, let's examine a hypothetical but representative research project that reflects the program's focus on community-relevant health issues. This example illustrates how students approach scientific questions under faculty mentorship, though specific projects vary each summer.
Research Question and Methodology
Project Title: "Analyzing Genetic and Environmental Factors in Type 2 Diabetes Susceptibility in Native American Populations"
Background: Type 2 diabetes disproportionately affects Native American communities, with prevalence rates significantly higher than in the general population. Understanding the interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.
Methodology:
Sample Collection
500 participants from consenting adult volunteers across three tribal communities
Genetic Analysis
DNA sequencing of candidate genes associated with insulin resistance
Environmental Data
Collection of dietary patterns, physical activity levels, and socioeconomic factors through validated questionnaires
Clinical Measurements
Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels, HbA1c, and insulin sensitivity
Data Integration
Statistical analysis to identify interactions between genetic markers and environmental influences
Research Focus
- Health Disparities
- Genetic Factors
- Environmental Influences
- Community Health
- Prevention Strategies
Results and Analysis
After 10 weeks of intensive research, our hypothetical NARI student would have generated significant findings, which might be presented in the following data tables:
| Participant Group | Sample Size (n) | Marker A Prevalence | Marker B Prevalence | Both Markers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Group 1 | 167 | 42% | 38% | 17% |
| Group 2 | 166 | 39% | 41% | 15% |
| Group 3 | 167 | 45% | 36% | 19% |
| Control Population | 300 | 28% | 25% | 8% |
| Environmental Factor | Correlation with HbA1c Levels (r value) | Statistical Significance (p-value) |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption | 0.42 | <0.001 |
| Traditional Diet Adherence | -0.38 | <0.001 |
| Physical Activity Level | -0.35 | 0.003 |
| Food Security | -0.41 | <0.001 |
| Stress Level | 0.29 | 0.012 |
These findings demonstrate that while genetic factors play a role in diabetes susceptibility, modifiable environmental factors have substantial impact, suggesting that community-based interventions targeting diet and physical activity could significantly reduce diabetes risk even in genetically susceptible individuals.
The Scientist's Toolkit: Essential Research Materials
NARI students are introduced to a wide array of research techniques and materials. Below is a table of essential reagents and tools they might use in molecular biology or biomedical research projects:
| Reagent/Material | Primary Function | Application Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Taq Polymerase | DNA amplification | Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for genetic analysis |
| Restriction Enzymes | DNA cutting at specific sequences | Molecular cloning and genetic engineering |
| Agarose Gel | DNA separation by size | Electrophoresis for analyzing PCR products |
| ELISA Kits | Protein detection and quantification | Measuring biomarker levels in blood samples |
| Cell Culture Media | Supporting cell growth | Maintaining human cell lines for experiments |
| Fluorescent Antibodies | Visualizing specific proteins | Immunofluorescence microscopy |
| SYBR Green | Detecting DNA in real-time | Quantitative PCR for gene expression analysis |
| CRISPR-Cas9 Components | Targeted gene editing | Investigating gene function through knockout |
Laboratory Skills Developed
- Molecular biology techniques
- Cell culture and maintenance
- Statistical analysis
- Data visualization
- Scientific writing and presentation
Professional Competencies
- Research ethics
- Collaborative teamwork
- Problem-solving
- Critical thinking
- Communication skills
Bridging Worlds: Cultural Connection in Scientific Research
A unique aspect of the NARI program is its intentional integration of cultural engagement with scientific training. Unlike conventional research internships that focus exclusively on technical skills, NARI recognizes that supporting students' cultural identities enhances both their personal development and their effectiveness as future scientists 6 .
The program facilitates this integration through several key components:
"NARI helped me understand that my cultural background isn't separate from my scientific identity—it strengthens it. The program showed me how to bring my whole self to research."
This holistic approach acknowledges that the most innovative science often emerges from diverse perspectives and that addressing health disparities requires understanding community-specific needs and values.
Beyond the Summer: Lasting Impact
The benefits of the NARI program extend far beyond the 10-week internship experience. Students who successfully complete a summer have the option to apply for a second summer, allowing for deeper research engagement and continued mentorship 6 . More importantly, the program creates lasting professional networks and meaningful relationships within both the scientific and Native American research communities 6 .
Career Pathways
NARI alumni pursue diverse careers in health sciences, bringing their unique perspectives to address health disparities in Indigenous communities.
"NARI didn't just teach me how to be a scientist—it showed me how my background and perspective could strengthen my science and allow me to serve my community through research."
Conclusion: Cultivating Diverse Scientific Futures
The Native American Summer Research Internship represents more than just a summer opportunity—it's a vision for the future of science itself. By creating spaces where students can excel as both scientists and members of their cultural communities, NARI challenges the notion that these identities must remain separate. The program demonstrates that diversity strengthens scientific inquiry, bringing new perspectives to bear on persistent health challenges.
As we face increasingly complex scientific and health challenges, from pandemics to health disparities, we need precisely the kind of diverse scientific talent that programs like NARI cultivate. These students don't just represent the future of Native American health research—they represent the future of scientific innovation itself, bringing their whole selves to the pressing scientific questions of our time.