Our REU Site in RNA and Genome Biology (REU-RGB) is a collaboration between CU-Anschutz and MSU Denver. This collaboration harnesses the strengths of each institution to engage students, particularly those from underrepresented groups in STEM, in independent, mentored bioscience research. By combining our campus resources, we take advantage of faculty and facilities at each institution to effectively identify and train students who are well-positioned for a transformative summer research experience. Our structure allows us to effectively match undergraduates, especially those that have taken less-traditional paths through college, with research-intensive faculty mentors. Mentors will provide advanced training to this next generation of scientists in a rigorous and well-supported program environment.