FAQs

Are there any options for me if I have not identified a UNC mentor before applying?   

If you have not yet identified a PI or lab to work with when you apply, we can enter your application into our applicant pool. However, it is preferred to already have a postbac position secured with a lab/research space before applying to PRISM. If you do not have a mentor before the application deadline, you are encouraged to take a look at UNC faculty labs and research through our Biological and Biomedical Sciences Faculty Database. If you find a lab that interests you, you are welcome to reach out to the PI.  

Faculty who are looking to hire a postbac through PRISM have access to the applicant pool and are encouraged to reach out to applicants. We cannot guarantee a match, but we hope this option can help facilitate one.  

Is there a GPA requirement?  

We review all applications regardless of GPA. Therefore, there is no strict GPA cutoff. If you feel it necessary, please discuss any extenuating circumstances that may have impacted your GPA in your application.  

What graduate-level course do PRISM scholars take?   

All PRISM scholars take a graduate-level course alongside first-year biomedical PhD students and have access to courses across the School of Medicine. PRISM scholars work with our program staff to select a course that is a good fit based on your interests and background. Therefore, PRISM scholars end up taking a variety of different courses.  

What are the start dates for each cohort?   

Three PRISM cohorts will launch throughout the year: Spring Cohort (January start date), Summer Cohort (June start date), and Fall Cohort (August start date). We require that scholars be hired into their lab with a start date between the 1st and the 15th of the month. For example, if you are starting in the Summer Cohort, your start date must be between June 1st and June 15th.  

Who should write my recommendation letters?    

Since PRISM is primarily a research program, the most impactful recommendation letters are from past and current research mentors. If you are currently conducting research at your home institution and have also completed a summer research experience at an external institution, you should provide a recommendation letter from both research mentors. While we recommend at least some research experience prior to applying to PRISM, some applicants have not yet participated in research. If this is the case for you, please provide letters from professors and academic advisors who know you well. Please avoid letters from non-scientific employers and personal acquaintances if possible. However, if you have conducted or are conducting research, please provide letters from your research mentors. 

Can I apply to PRISM if I hold a Master’s Degree?   

Generally, the PRISM program model is not geared towards students who hold a Master’s degree. The program primarily admits scholars who have recently completed and received their Bachelor’s degree. If you will hold a master’s degree at the time of starting PRISM, please contact us to discuss.   

How is my time divided between my lab or research space and the other PRISM program requirements?  

PRISM is a full-time commitment, with the majority of your time spent conducting research in your lab or research space. In addition, you will participate in monthly PRISM workshops and enroll in one graduate-level course for one semester during the PRISM year.