124 An educational curriculum, mentors’ preparedness and certification, a mentored research experience and a support network: strategies to increase diversity and inclusion in the Clinical and Translational Research (CTR) workforce among underrepresented researchers.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: The Professional Development Core (PDC) of the Hispanic Alliance for Clinical and Translational Research (The Alliance) has implemented a multifaceted program to support Early-Stage Investigators (ESI) and mid-career investigators to increase productivity and achieve success in their research endeavors. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Since 2021, PDC launched an educational program tailored for ESI or mid-career investigators, addressing specific gaps in research competencies. A needs assessment survey gathered information from these investigators, and its results served as the foundation for the program’s design. In addition, recognizing the need for excellence in mentoring, PDC spearheaded a program to provide a certification curriculum for new or experienced mentors. Experienced researchers were encouraged to participate in the certification process with ample opportunities to discuss their mentoring experiences and the incorporation of new approaches that emphasize diversity and inclusion. A structured mentored research experience with support for protected time for the investigator and the mentors was also implemented. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: Four investigators and their mentors have received the Mentor-Mentee Award (100% PhD, 75% female, 50% Assistant Professor, 75% ESI, 75% with mentors from the mainland United States). Their program’s evaluation will be presented. Thirty-two (32) researchers have participated in the courses in Health Disparity and Scientific Communication. Support for grant writing was offered through a three-pronged approach: a webinar series, a course in Grantsmanship and a grant’s bootcamp. Twenty-four (24) mentors were certified, and over 30 training activities were offered to supply knowledge in areas previously identified in the needs assessment. We will present the complete curriculum, courses offerings, participants’ profiles, and productivity outcomes. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Alliance educational and mentoring supportive network increased the diversity of CTR workforce and prepared qualified researchers to address the Hispanics health needs. Collaborations with mainland researchers have expanded the PDC program’s reach and contributed to the enhancement of the Hispanic contribution to the health research ecosystem.