Interdisciplinary Research Fellowship in NeuroAIDS

SUMMARY The Interdisciplinary Research Fellowship in NeuroHIV (IRFN) is a two-year research education program anchored on the premise that our future success in tackling the complexity of clinical problems in neuroHIV depends on the availability of researchers with the training to imagine problem-solving approaches that cut- across and integrate multiple relevant research disciplines. To this end, we have followed an interdisciplinary and translational model of research training aimed at bridging the gaps left by single discipline approaches. Our program functions as a neuroHIV-themed Special Institute emphasizing interdisciplinary and translational research through immersion into the vibrant research setting of the HIV Neurobehavioral Research Program (HNRP) and two main programmatic components: mentored research and focused didactics. Participants receive close mentoring by experts in the field, leveraging the expertise of preclinical and clinically oriented neuroHIV researchers. The IRFN outlines a clear progression toward independence in order to consolidate each Fellow’s future success. Participants learn to approach neuroHIV research questions from an interdisciplinary and translational perspective, with potential clinical applications as an essential end point of their work. In the proposed renewal we will equally engage clinically trained as well as basic postdoctoral and early career neuroscientists seeking to apply their talents to research on patient-oriented problems in neuroHIV. This serves our translational goals by engendering “cross-pollination” of ideas. The research experiences of IRFN fellows will be in the laboratories of high-caliber, nationally and internationally recognized neuroHIV researchers. Core competencies will cover current thinking in NeuroHIV, from molecular to behavioral phenomena, general research principles, research ethics, and grant writing skills. Essentials of good mentoring will also be taught formally using evidence-based curricula. Additional didactics will center on professional development and electives to enhance participants’ knowledge and individuation in areas of interest. Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion will be upheld across all components of the IRFN. Proposed for this renewal is the introduction of seed funding for Fellows to conduct a focused, vetted pilot project in an area aligned with NIMH HIV research priorities and the research themes within the HNRP, with the aim of facilitating a future extramural funding application. The IRFN features: (1) outstanding faculty who have a long history of mentoring researchers to become independent investigators, (2) individualized education, including research experiences that are tailored to individual needs, (3) core and flexible didactic experiences, including lectures by leading neuroHIV researchers, and (4) active evaluation and oversight of the program by a multidisciplinary advisory committee.