The UK Students Participating as Ambassadors for Research in Kentucky (SPARK) Program is now accepting applications from undergraduate students interested in health equity research. The deadline to apply is October 4.

The purpose of the SPARK program is to train undergraduate students at the University of Kentucky and Kentucky State University to conduct impactful research to improve health disparities.

Participants are introduced to community-engaged research focused on health disparities and receive extensive mentorship. They identify a research topic and work with their mentors to develop a research project to conduct in their home communities over the summer, receiving funds to support their research. After implementing the project undertake data analysis and write-up, and present and publish their research in professional settings.
 

Who is eligible?

Undergraduate students at the University of Kentucky and Kentucky State University with at least two academic years left until graduation and a GPA of 2.8 or higher are invited to apply for SPARK. We seek talented students interested in developing research expertise and projects in health disparities/health equity. Due to the intensive nature of the SPARK Program, and to ensure students reap the most benefit from their experience, successful applicants who choose to accept the SPARK offer cannot participate simultaneously in other research training programs.
 

When and where are the trainings?

Research training will begin in January 2025, with research data collection taking place May through August of 2025. Research activities will continue throughout academic year 2025-2026. All students will present their projects at the annual CCTS conference in April 2026.

 The SPARK program will take place primarily in person. Meetings and training sessions are anticipated to occur at the Health Kentucky Research Building at the University of Kentucky. When necessary, remote options will be made available.
 

What resources and benefits does SPARK provide?

Students will receive excellent research training, faculty and community mentorship, a $5,000 summer stipend, ample resources for their research project, and professional development opportunities.
 

How do I learn more and apply?

Complete details and application instructions are available here.

(SPARK) is a dynamic collaboration between the Center for Health, Engagement, and Transformation (CHET), the Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS), Aetna Better Health of Kentucky, and other university and philanthropic partners.