Through funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Yale Cancer Center’s Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination (CRTEC) program joined forces with four leading cancer centers, Stanford University, Indiana University, the University of Kentucky, and the University of Rochester (the primary grant holder), to launch an inclusive, mentored research internship for Deaf high school students.
Supported by an R25 grant, this innovative initiative is part of a national effort to introduce Deaf students to careers in cancer research and medicine, empowering them to envision themselves as future scientists, physicians, and leaders in the fight against cancer. On July 16, 2025, the students had the opportunity to visit Yale’s Healthcare Center for Simulation. This is a state-of-the-art facility offering innovative medical education, assessment, research, and outreach focused on improving patient care through simulation-based training. During the visit, students explored virtual reality medical simulations and interacted with high-fidelity simulation manikins, offering them a realistic and immersive glimpse into clinical training.