University of Washington Pediatric and Reproductive Environmental Health Scholars (UW PREHS)

ABSTRACT There is a significant need for clinically trained practitioners with structured research training in environmental health to translate research findings to clinical and policy realms. The overarching goal of the University of Washington Pediatric and Reproductive Environmental Health Scholars (UW PREHS) career development program is to bridge clinical training to research independence, through a mentored research experience in pediatric and reproductive environmental health. The program integrates the outstanding research and training opportunities at the University of Washington, forming a novel partnership among the Departments of Pediatrics, Family Medicine, Obstetrics/Gynecology, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, and Epidemiology. Nationally recognized PREH physicians-scientists and Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit (PEHSU) leaders, Dr. Catherine Karr and Dr. Sheela Sathyanarayana, are uniquely suited to lead the program to prepare future leaders in PREH research and research to policy and practice translation. Our primary aims are to: 1. Recruit and train scholars in PREH science, rigorous research methodology and research skills. 2. Support scholars in completion of an impactful PREH research project. 3. Involve scholars in research translation practice activities through the NW Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit. 4. Establish and maintain a collaborative network of mentors for scholars to support their success in the UW PREHS program and in transition to independence upon completion of the program. Scholars will participate in a tailored career development program anchored in a set of core competencies spanning four primary domains: 1) PREH content expertise, 2) Research methods development, 3) Practice based research translation (PEHSU), and 4) Career development toward independence. Central structural elements include mentor advised individualized learning plans, a novel PREH seminar series, involvement in PEHSU consultation and outreach, and development and implementation of at least one research project. Ongoing evaluation plans for scholars, mentors, and the program provides continual improvement for this new program. A senior Advisory Committee will provide oversight of the program evaluation based on identified benchmarks. The program is poised to recruit and train up to 6 scholars for 2-3 year periods each. Scholars will be prepared to serve not only as scientists, but clinician-advocates and trusted and impactful voices on policy and practices to improve environmental health conditions of children and families.