Abstract
Background
Novel and comprehensive approaches are needed to address shortcomings in the diversity and inclu- siveness of the scientific workforce. In response to this need and informed by multiple programs and data sources, we created the Research Scholars Program (RSP). The RSP is a yearlong program for early-career faculty with an overall objective to overcome barriers to the academic success, retention, progression, and promotion of groups underrepre- sented in biomedical and behavioral research. The goal of the RSP is to increase research confidence and productivity, build a supportive research community, and reduce isolation by providing personal and group research enrichment to junior faculty through professional development, mentorship, and networking.
Methods
We adapted evidence-based approaches for our institutional context and vetted the RSP across our campus. The resulting RSP consists of three main elements: (1) five levels of Mosaic Mentorship; (2) group and tai- lored professional development programming; and (3) scientific and social networking. To determine the potential of the RSP to improve research confidence critical to success, we used a modified shortened version of the Clinical Research Appraisal Inventory (CRAI-12) to assess participants’ confidence in performing a variety of research tasks before and after program participation. We collected information about retention, promotion, and grants submitted and awarded. Additionally, we conducted semi-structured exit interviews with each scholar after program participa- tion to identify programmatic strengths and areas for improvement. Data for Cohorts 1 and 2 (N = 12) were analyzed.
Results
Our assessment finds, with one exception, increasing confidence in participants’ research skills across all items, ranging from 0.4 (4.7%) to 2.6 (40.6%). In their exit interviews, the Research Scholars (RS) described their improved productivity and increased sense of belonging and support from others. Research Scholars noted numer- ous components of the RSP as strengths, including the Mosaic Mentorship model, professional development pro- gramming, and opportunities for both informal and formal interactions. Respondents identified time pressure, a lack of feedback, and unclear expectations of the various mentorship roles as areas in which the program can improve.
Conclusion
Preliminary findings indicate that the RSP is successful in building the research confidence of under- represented and disadvantaged early-career faculty. While this report focuses on the development and protocol of the RSP, additional cohorts and data will provide the evidence base to support dissemination as a national model of research professional development. Such programming is critical to ensure sustainable support structures, institu- tional networks, infrastructure, and resources that will improve discovery and equity through inclusive excellence.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2024
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-024-05075-0
Funding Information
We acknowledge the support of our institutional partners who have provided funding for this program. These institutional partners, listed above, have provided financial support for the RSP but were not involved with the study design, data collection, and development of this publication.
Repository Citation
Schoenberg, Nancy; Robinson, Jimmy; McGladrey, Margaret J.; Cassis, Lisa A.; Conwell, Darwin; Pearson, Kevin J.; Tannock, Lisa R.; Wilcock, Donna; and White, Stephanie, "Promoting a more diverse and inclusive research workforce through the research scholars program" (2024). Markey Cancer Center Faculty Publications. 182.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/markey_facpub/182
Notes/Citation Information
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