136 Evaluating the ten-year progression of the Miami CTSI Mentored Translational Research Scholars (KL2) Program Awards

Abstract

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: The goal of Miami CTSI’s Mentored Translational Research Scholars (KL2) Program is to identify outstanding early-stage investigators and prepare them to become the next generation of highly skilled independent researchers who translate fundamental knowledge and new technologies from the laboratory to the clinic and to the community. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Evaluation of the KL2 program focused on assessing progress in the following areas: 1) scholar productivity during and after graduating from the program; 2) continued engagement of KL2 program graduates in clinical and translational research; scholar productivity during and after graduating from the program; 3) outcomes such as establishing independent research careers, obtaining research funding, and establishing collaborations; and 4) research impact. We used a developmental evaluation approach and benefits-framework model to conduct program evaluation, incorporating both in a program-specific logic model. Bi-annual surveys were used to measure scholar feedback and progress, and utilization of CTSI services. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: Since 2013, the KL2 program has trained 21 scholars,17 of whom have completed training, and four are still in the program. Of the 21 scholars, 52% are female and 38% are underrepresented minorities (URM)–significantly higher than the 12% URM for overall CTSA KL2 scholars. Scholars have 176 total publications related to their KL2 projects and have received $52.4m in total research funding. In addition, 50% of the projects focused on health disparities. Overall, 48% of KL2 scholars have received large subsequent federal awards including three NIH K awards and six NIH R awards. Scholars actively utilized CTSI services during and after graduation. Programmatic enhancements such as adding institutional scholars and using scholar feedback to improve program resources were also implemented. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Miami CTSI’s KL2 program has demonstrated success in fulfilling its program goals. The process and outcome evaluation has provided a better understanding of program performance and progress and has demonstrated alignment with CTSI’s overall goals on addressing health disparities and its commitment to diversity and equity.