BEACON
About the BEACON Center
Lipoprotein (a) is a biomarker that is elevated in about a fifth of the population and is associated with increased risk of heart attack, stroke and aortic stenosis.
Though Lp(a) testing is not yet commonplace, U.S. national guidelines were updated in 2024 to recommend that Lp(a) be checked at least once in the lifetime of every adult. Screening for elevated Lp(a) may help to prevent cardiovascular disease through early intervention and optimization of clinical care.
UC San Diego BEACON is conducting innovative research to address important, clinically-relevant questions related to epidemiology, mechanisms, risk stratification, and the outcomes of patients with elevated Lp(a).
Additionally, we are establishing an Lp(a) Clinical Trial Coordinating Center to lead multicenter clinical trials associated with Lp(a), including examining the impact of Lp(a) on Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) and non- ASCVD outcomes in underrepresented groups and those without existing cardiovascular disease.
Funded by the Riley and Susan Bechtel Foundation.
The UC San Diego BEACON Center is housed at the UC San Diego Cardiovascular Institute.
CVI Summer Research Program 2026
We are excited to invite high school, undergraduate students and medical students to apply for the 2026 UC San Diego Cardiovascular Institute Summer Research Program (SRP).
This is a fully funded, eight‑week research experience in cardiovascular science. Participants receive mentorship from UC San Diego clinician‑scientists, attend a core lecture series, and gain clinical‑shadowing opportunities. Stipends of $5000 will be awarded to college and medical students and $2500 for high school students.
Apply by March 31st, 2026
The Core Lecture period is June 15th – July 15th, 2026, but this is an 8 week program with the potential to extend to the end of the summer.