The Tribal Undergraduate to Graduate Research Training and Leadership Experiences (TURTLE) Program, funded by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS), aims to develop a workforce of American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) scientists specializing in AI/AN health research. This phased program (UE5/T34) supports eligible Tribal entities, including federally recognized Tribes, tribal colleges, and organizations, to enhance their capacity for research training and mentorship. The program fosters technical, operational, and professional skills necessary for culturally respectful, ethical, and rigorous research, enabling participants to transition into the biomedical research workforce.

The TURTLE program consists of two phases over seven years. The first phase (UE5) spans two years, emphasizing capacity building, including hiring personnel, developing educational content, and establishing administrative infrastructure for research training programs. The second phase (T34) runs for five years, supporting undergraduates pursuing biomedically relevant degrees. Participants in this phase receive financial and professional support, including stipends, tuition remission, mentoring, and skill-building opportunities. This funding enables a cohort-based model of engagement, ensuring community and academic success.

Eligibility is restricted to federally recognized Tribes, tribal colleges, health programs, or organizations, and consortia of these entities. Applicants must demonstrate institutional support, adequate facilities, and the capacity to administer training programs. Individuals supported by the program must be full-time students pursuing bachelor’s degrees in biomedical fields, with AI/AN health research as a focus. Recruitment efforts should align with TURTLE’s diversity and inclusion goals, while mentorship teams must include experienced and culturally informed mentors.

Applicants must follow NIH guidelines for submission via Grants.gov, ensuring compliance with detailed requirements in the SF424 (R&R) Application Guide. Key elements include a phased development and training plan, milestones, budget estimates, and mechanisms for trainee recruitment, support, and tracking. A transition application is required at the end of the UE5 phase to demonstrate readiness for the T34 training phase. Non-compliance with submission or reporting requirements may result in funding delays or disqualification.

Applications will undergo peer review, evaluating criteria such as the program's rationale, staffing, development plan, and organizational commitment. Proposals must demonstrate a robust plan for recruiting and supporting AI/AN trainees, fostering inclusive and effective training environments, and contributing to AI/AN health equity through sustained mentorship and research opportunities. Metrics for success include degree completions, research outputs, and transition into the biomedical workforce.

The first application deadline is January 27, 2025, with subsequent deadlines annually through 2027. Programs may begin as early as December 2025, contingent on NIH administrative review. Queries regarding the application process can be directed to NIH support contacts or specific TURTLE program officials.