Two students from NINR’s 2008 Summer Genetics Institute complete work in the laboratory.

“You have come here from across the country, and from many of the nation’s best nursing research schools,” said NINR director Dr. Patricia Grady at a recent ceremony celebrating the conclusion of the institute’s ninth Summer Genetics Institute (SGI). “All of you have worked very hard to develop your knowledge and hone new skills in genetics and health care research.” This year, 20 students completed the program, bringing the total number of SGI graduates to 159.

SGI provides a 2-month, full-time research training program on the NIH campus for nursing faculty, graduate students and advanced practice nurses. Its purpose is to develop genetics research capacity and expand the basis for clinical education and practice in genetics within the nursing profession. SGI students spend approximately 100 hours in the laboratory, learning basic techniques used in molecular biology to promote their understanding of the technology of genetic testing. They also discuss clinical case studies and attend lectures and seminars focused on a wide range of ethical, social, legal and public policy issues. Through this training, NINR is preparing nurses to address important scientific questions about the influences of genetics on health, such as those arising from the Human Genome Project and the ongoing International HapMap Project.

The SGI experience frequently serves as a springboard to additional research training and education in genetics. To date, SGI graduates have published more than 150 peer-reviewed articles, while approximately one-third have gone on to receive federal funding for their research projects.

In future years, genetics will become increasingly important in health care education. Faculty members who complete SGI are well prepared to integrate genetics topics into nursing curricula, thereby spreading the knowledge they have gained through this intensive program and enhancing the ability of their students to apply the principles of genetics in their own practice and research.

“We eagerly anticipate seeing the outcomes and products of your work over the next several years, including publications and presentations, grants and new academic courses,” Grady told the students. “Each of you will assist in the effort to translate our increasing knowledge of genetics into improved health care for all patients.”