Cultivating the Next Generation of Interdisciplinary HIV Social and Behavioral Science Researchers: The Advancing Research Careers in HIV Program

About This Grant

Project Summary/Abstract The overall goal of this proposed program is to expand the workforce of HIV Social and Behavioral Science Researchers who will use their advanced research training and experiences with dissemination and implementation research to improve the uptake of, and access to, current biomedical and behavioral interventions to reduce HIV in the U.S. The Advancing Research Careers in HIV Program (hereafter referred to as the program) is a two-year, multi-component, evidence-based research education mentoring program that is uniquely focused on educating and guiding master’s level students in public health, nursing, and social work toward advanced doctoral degree programs in Social and Behavioral Science Research, and eventual careers in HIV science. Our program's focus on terminal master's students in health sciences directs qualified applicants to HIV research early in their graduate education. It also provides a structure to integrate HIV- focused Social Behavioral Science Research skills and experiences with their existing applied disciplinary training, producing scholars who will be better prepared to conduct implementation and dissemination HIV research. The program is grounded in the expanded Social Cognitive Career Theory, with learning experiences that promote progression through stages of the theory. Our pedagogical approach will use the following High- Impact Educational Practices to promote transformational learning: a) Interprofessional Education Strategies, b) Cohort-Based Learning Strategies, and c) a Mentoring Ecosystem. Students will participate in HIV-focused Social Behavioral Science and Dissemination and Implementation Science academic coursework using experiential learning approaches, a Mentored Research Experience using a hybrid apprenticeship model, development and monitoring of an Individual Development Plan, community research dissemination engagement activities, local and national academic conferences, and an Interprofessional Education Community of Practice. Students will also interface with researchers from the program’s External Research Mentor Network and NIH-funded HIV Research Networks, as well as HIV practitioners and health departments through our Community Oversight Board and Community Partners. Our evaluation will be guided by the Updated Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research to assess the program outcomes, and to conduct a systematic assessment of multilevel implementation contexts to guide future expansion of the program to other Universities. Selection into the program will be merit-based and focused on an interest in a doctoral-level research career in HIV, and a desire to be part of a multidisciplinary HIV workforce. Program operations will comply with federal requirements to ensure a professional and respectful training environment. This program supports the priorities of the NIH Strategic Plan for HIV and HIV-Related Research, the NIMH Division of AIDS Research, and the Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. initiative. All activities are structured to promote measurable achievement, academic progression, and readiness for advanced research training.