Developing the next generation of biomedical research faculty through research, teaching, mentoring, and career development.

Program Overview

Year 1: Build

Arrive at UCSF (Aug-Oct). 

Establish research project.

SFSU orientation & teaching workshop.

Program funded.

Year 2: Teach + Mentor

Mentored Teaching Experience at SFSU.

Mentor a student in the summer.

Prepare a grant.

Program funded.

Year 3: Transition

Identify and apply to extramural funding.

Prepare a manuscript.

Formal grant writing workshop.

Program funded.

Year 4: Launch

Funded by K Award or PI funding.

Begin the search for a faculty position.

Mock interview at SFSU. (Optional)

Independent or PI funding.

The UCSF IRACDA Scholars Program is a four-year postdoctoral career development program that prepares biomedical scientists for independent research and teaching careers in academia. Through a longstanding partnership between the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and San Francisco State University (SFSU), Scholars develop as researchers, educators, and mentors while building the skills needed for successful academic careers.

UCSF IRACDA Mission

Since 2007, the UCSF IRACDA Scholars Program has cultivated a dynamic community of biomedical scientists representing a broad range of research interests. Our mission is to prepare Scholars for independent academic careers while strengthening the UCSF–SFSU partnership in research, teaching, training, and mentoring.

Scholars conduct cutting-edge research with UCSF faculty Research Mentors and develop their teaching skills with experienced SFSU faculty Teaching Mentors. Through classroom teaching and research mentorship, Scholars also contribute to the education and development of the next generation of scientists.