TARC-TIGERS Program
Training Innovators to Gain Experiential Research Skills (TARC-TIGERS) Program
Mission Statement: Under the leadership of Dr. Saira Sheikh, the Clinical Trials Program at the UNC Thurston Arthritis Research Center (TARC) advances innovative therapies for rheumatologic and autoimmune diseases across North Carolina and beyond. Through collaborative, patient-centered research our program expands access to cutting-edge treatments, accelerates discovery, strengthens communities, and fosters clinical excellence.
The UNC Thurston Arthritis Research Center Training Innovators to Gain Experiential Research Skills (TARC-TIGERS) summer program is a very competitive, structured, educational opportunity designed for motivated and exceptional high school students (rising junior or seniors, age 16 years and above) interested in innovation, research, and professional development. Hosted by the TARC clinical trials team, this program provides clinical exposure, workforce‑readiness training, and practical office skill development to prepare students for future academic and career pathways. This program includes a didactic and a hands-on component.
With the supervision and support of research staff, participants will engage directly with clinical environments, support research‑related tasks appropriate for their experience level, and develop essential professional skills in communication, organization, teamwork, and patient‑centered service. This role is intended for learning and exposure; therefore, responsibilities do not include direct patient care activities, handling of biological samples, or access to medical records without direct supervision from research coordinators or relevant staff.
Brief description of duties:
- Assist with creating patient outreach materials
- Organizing, prepping, and maintaining laboratory kits & materials
- Shadowing research coordinators in research spaces on campus
- Learn and perform administrative tasks
- Learn key professional skills such as public speaking, scientific literacy, writing emails, data visualization, organization, etc.
Hourly rate of pay: $12.00-$15.00/ hour
Average hours per week: 25-30 hours
Four successful applicants will function as Research Technicians on the team.
For inquiries about the TARC-TIGERS Program, please contact the Program Administrator, Leah Luizza (Leah_Luizza@med.unc.edu).