Clinical and Translational Science Collaborative of Northern Ohio, Intensive Summer Education Program in Translational Research for Undergraduate Students (INSPIRE-US)

Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland OH

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

The NIH has already made substantial investments in research education programs. However, the predominant focus of the majority of NIH supported workforce development programs has narrowly focused on cultivating the next generation of doctorally prepared clinical and translational scientists with minimal attention to the need for a biomedical sciences workforce that also includes research professionals who are critical to the production of clinical and translational science (CTS). To address the need for a larger CTS workforce with varied needs, the proposed program, Intensive Summer Education Program in Translation Research for Undergraduate Students (INSPIRE- US), entails research education activities that align with the mission of the NIH and Case Western Reserve University. The proposed program, INSPIRE-US, builds on the institutional commitments of the University and the Cleveland Translational Science Collaborative, as well as the experience of the MPIs, an external advisory board, and program faculty who have led similar research education programs and understand the distinct learning and socioemotional needs of undergraduates interested in careers related to CTS. The INSPIRE-US program is conceptualized as a 10-week research education program that is tailored to the distinct needs of undergraduates interested in careers in clinical and translational science. Across the five years of this program, the program leadership aim to recruit 25 program participants. The specific aims for this application are: (1) Recruit talented undergraduates through evidence-informed strategies and collaborative institutional partnerships with colleges and universities; (2) Implement a theory-informed curriculum with complementary program activities that fosters community building and social support, hands on research experiences across the clinical and translational science continuum, didactic instruction and micro-credentialing focused on the fundamental concepts of clinical and translational science, and mentoring and career coaching activities that aim to promote persistence and the intention to pursue careers in CTS among program participants; and (3) Evaluate the short- and long-term effects of the INSPIRE-US program on participants’ career progression, program faculty, and the university. Our INSPIRE- US program leverages best practices known to promote career interest, research skill development, and the socioemotional support needed for undergraduates to successfully join the CTS workforce. If shown effective, the INSPIRE-US program is conceptualized to be reproducible and easily integrated into the activities of other Clinical Translational Science Awards (CTSA).