Integrating multi-omics and AI-driven approaches into STEMM education to advance cancer research training

Preparing future scientists to address the complexity of cancer requires early exposure to advanced analytical methods and transdisciplinary thinking. We developed scalable STEMM education programs that integrate multi-omics and artificial intelligence into cancer research training across multiple learner levels. Central to this effort is the Biotechnology Research Incubator for Teachers (BRITE), an NIH R25 Science Education Partnership Award program providing secondary-school teachers with hands-on multi-omics training rooted in cancer biology. By incorporating genomics, proteomics, and data-driven interpretation, BRITE equips teachers to translate authentic cancer research practices into classroom learning. Building on this foundation, the NCI-funded P20 Cancer Research Education Program (C-REP) engages undergraduate and graduate/PharmD trainees in multi-omics workflows, tumor signaling pathways, and computational analyses. We also established the IMPACT Medical Scholar Program, which introduces medical students to cancer research methodologies, advanced analytics, and patient-centered communication. To broaden the early pipeline, we created high-school programs that use AI-assisted adapted primary literature and culminate in a student research symposium. Collectively, these programs provide a scalable model for integrating advanced technologies into STEMM education to strengthen participation in cancer research.