Scientific Training in Addiction Research Techniques (START) for Gifted Future Investigators

University Of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles CA

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

Modified Project Summary/Abstract Section National and global substance misuse challenges require sustainable pipelines of well-trained investigators with a wide range of perspectives and talents. Despite initiatives to increase workforce development programs, there is a deficit of comprehensive training programs to prepare junior scholars for careers in addiction research. Many scholars face multidimensional obstacles that limit their access to the early enrichment, rigorous training, effective mentoring, nourishing environments, and financial support necessary to become scientists. Many junior scholars struggle to meet the publication and funding expectations. These challenges are due in part to a deficit of clinical training opportunities in graduate school and have domino effects throughout one’s career to adversely affect employment, tenure qualifications, and other aspects of academic life. It is essential that we arrest these trends by developing optimal training programs for scholars. To that end, we propose a year-long comprehensive research education program titled “Scientific Training in Addiction Research Techniques (START).” START specifically prepares investigators to access, analyze, and disseminate data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study through both mentored research experiences and didactic skill-building courses. The ABCD Study is the largest long-term study of brain development and child health in the United States and uses an “open science” framework to make all data publicly available. Trainees will complete coursework to support their professional development and will complete an independent, mentored research project using ABCD data. START scholars will present and/or publish their scientific findings, and a comprehensive program evaluation will monitor trainees, mentors, and the program as a whole. The overarching goal of START is to create a pipeline of substance misuse clinical researchers who are trained in the analysis and dissemination of data from the ABCD study.