ASPIRE is a post-doctoral program that combines research in a laboratory as well as pedagogical training and real-time practice in the undergraduate classroom. You will continue your research pursuits guided by a JHU faculty, while you also complete teacher training and work with a mentor at Morgan or Coppin State University to become an effective teacher. We will also provide advice, help and coaching to secure a career in academia at a research- or teacher-focused institution. Our program is flexible to meet each scholars’ goals.
Year 1: Research and Pedagogical Training
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- Establish research and teaching mentors, along with Individual Development Plans.
- Perform original, independent research with guidance from mentors.
- Attend the JHU Center for Educational Resources’ Teaching Academy to receive a teaching certificate.
- Develop and enhance pedagogical skills by participating in classes that include teaching strategies, learning theory, cultural responsive teaching and enhancing student motivation.
- Develop student mentoring skills.
Year 2: Teaching Practicum and Teaching Certification
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- Present research findings at local and national conferences.
- Work with faculty mentor to develop teaching modules and receive guidance and mentoring on teaching, undergraduate advising, administration, and academic culture.
- Complete Teaching Certificate requirements.
- Participate in classroom activities at Morgan State and/or Coppin State.
Year 3: Transition to Independence
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- Complete research project
- Publish in peer-reviewed journals
- Begin transition to independent research career
- Teach course
- Provide mentorship to students independently
Year 4: Transition to Independence (optional, pending external support)
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- Additional opportunities for transition to research independence
- Additional teaching experience.
The ASPIRE program provides opportunities for scholars to participate in professional development workshops and activities. Workshops topics have included:
- Grant Writing — offered through the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Professional Development and Career Office
- Grant Review — ASPIRE scholars, their mentors and ASPIRE Co-Directors meet to workshop and critique their Specific Aims pages
- Lightning Talks — to improve their communication skills scholars, the group works together to iterate and refine 5 – 7 slides to effectively focus on and communicate why their work matters
- Managing Up — offered by JHU School of Arts & Sciences & Whiting School of Engineering Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs
- Teaching-As-Research — program through JHU Center for Teaching Excellence & Innovation
- Teaching Academies — offered at Morgan State University and JHU
- Career Workshop — ASPIRE scholars, their mentors and ASPIRE Co-Directors meet to learn how to create a CV, write effective Teaching Statements, conduct Mock Interviews, submit application materials and processes and participate in the Rising Stars program
- Morgan State University Mentoring Workshop
Other opportunities include:
- Attending the annual IRACDA Conference
- Presenting seminars to Morgan and Coppin State University students
- Participating in programs that increase STEM student retention and diversity in the sciences
- Serving as research mentors to undergraduates
- Research supplies and travel support
- Networking with other IRACDA scholars at a monthly book group and social events
