Cynthia Corbitt, PhD, CHD Grant

Dr. Cynthia Corbitt, Neuro RIG member, and Dr. LaCreis Kidd received a grant from the KY Council on Postsecondary Education for the 2022 Cancer & Health Disparity Summer Bridge Program (CHD). Twelve rising freshmen from under-represented or low socio-economic backgrounds completed an eight-week mentored summer research program under the supervision of faculty engaged in environmental health, cancer, or health disparity basic, and population-based research at the University of Louisville. Some of the research topics included: the impact of cadmium on cell viability, colony formation, and DNA repair; effects of prenatal e-cigarette exposure on rodent offspring kidney weight; formaldehyde’s effects on tracheal smooth muscle relaxation; lupus risk factors and treatments; impact of stress on infertility; childhood stress; knowledge of HIV treatment and transmission among African American Youth; and Covid-19 vaccine hesitancy in sexual/gender minorities. All of the students presented their research at UofL’s Undergraduate Research Symposium on August 5, 2022. In addition, the students participated in professional development activities, cancer seminars, networking opportunities, and a study skills-building book club. The CHD summer bridge program adds to the pool of diverse students for future summer research programs for undergraduates, NIH diversity supplements, and ultimately professional school. This program was sponsored by a grant from the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (PIs: Dr. LaCreis Kidd and Dr. Cynthia Corbitt). For more information contact: lacreis.kidd@louisville.edu or cynthia.corbitt@louisville.eduor visit the CHD YouTube channel HERE.