Increasing Black representation in genomics research will directly contribute to medical advances and related health benefits for people with African ancestry. Bridging the gaps that keep participation in DNA-related research low is one way to help achieve health equity.
We are looking for new ideas on how to increase participation of Black Americans in genomics research.
Regeneron is a leading biotechnology company that invents life-transforming medicines for people with serious diseases. Base 11 is a non-profit, workforce and entrepreneur development company on a mission to close the STEM gap and build a sustainable middle class in America. Together, Regeneron and Base 11 seek the help of young changemakers like you to increase the participation of Black Americans in genomics research by addressing any of these key known barriers: access, awareness, and trust. Your new ideas will shape the way Regeneron and collaborators from across the healthcare, academic and nonprofit sectors can bring their unique strengths together to make this happen.
The DNA Diversity Challenge (the “Challenge”) is sponsored by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (“Sponsor”). To participate in the Challenge, complete all required fields in the entry form (the “Submission”) and follow the specific instructions in the Guidelines tab above. There will be multiple winners and the total value of prizes to be awarded is $17,500. As a part of the Submission, you can respond to one or both of the following questions:
- Influencer Challenge – Prompt 1: How would you persuade a person of African ancestry who is close to you that it’s worthwhile to participate in genomics research? Document and share with us how you would influence someone to participate.
This prompt might be for you if you are feeling creative, and like working in video, audio, still images or written word. It won’t require much research – just a good pitch!
- Collaboration Challenge – Prompt 2: Propose innovative ways that a cross-sector collaboration (for example, from biotech, healthcare, education, and/or nonprofit sectors) could work together to increase participation of Black Americans in genomics research by addressing issues of access, awareness, or trust.
This prompt is for you if you like reaching lots of people. It’s a bigger prompt, and involves some research, strategy, and idea generation.
Submissions to each of the questions above will be judged only against other Submissions for that particular question. LIMIT: three (3) Submissions per person or team. Those who do not follow all of the instructions, provide the required information in their Submission, or abide by these Official Rules or other instructions of Sponsor may be disqualified. Sponsor is not responsible for lost, late, illegible, misdirected, mutilated, or incomplete, entries.
Awards:- $17,500
Deadline:- 01-07-2022
