Translational Research Immersion Program (TRIP)

Continued Engagement

We’re committed to helping students stay engaged in clinical and translational science throughout their undergraduate journey. Whether through continued research, academic mentorship, or community events, TRIP alumni have access to a range of opportunities designed to support their growth, curiosity, and connection to the broader scientific community.

Dual Mentorship Opportunities

TRIP students are encouraged to explore continued research engagement with their summer mentors beyond the 10-week program. For those who plan to work with a mentor at their home institution during the academic year, ITMAT Education is happy to help facilitate collaboration between both mentors to support ongoing research or academic advising.

If continued scientific research is not feasible, mentors are encouraged to serve as academic advisors, offering guidance on coursework, career planning, and graduate school preparation. Once mentor teams are formed, ITMAT Education hosts a kick-off meeting to introduce available initiatives and outline opportunities for sustained engagement throughout the student’s undergraduate studies.

All TRIP mentors have access to ITMAT Education’s Research Mentor Training Program, which supports effective mentorship practices and promotes student-centered advising.

Community Building and Networking Activities

TRIP alumni are invited to participate in virtual community-building and networking events throughout the academic year. These gatherings offer a chance to reconnect with peers, share experiences, and build relationships across the broader ITMAT Education community.

Participants engage with:

Pre-doctoral trainees working across Penn’s clinical and translational research programs
Post-doctoral fellows pursuing advanced research and training
Early-career faculty who offer insights into academic and clinical career pathways

Translational Research Seminar Series

To support continued engagement and scientific communication, TRIP mentor teams (student and mentor dyads) are invited to present their research to the ITMAT community throughout the academic year. These virtual seminars provide a platform for students to share:

Research in progress
Exploratory or emerging topics
More developed or finalized projects

The series fosters dialogue across disciplines and highlights the different paths TRIP students take in clinical and translational science.

Featured Presentations:

Elaine Kim Swarthmore College '23

Sarina Smith Haverford College ‘23

Ummayh Siddiqua University of Pennsylvania ‘25