Center for Latino Health Research Opportunities-CLaRO - Investigator Development Core

Revised Abstract Section ABSTRACT The Investigator Development Core (IDc) of the Center for Latino Health Research Opportunities (CLaRO) will lead activities to enhance training, preparation, and career development of multidisciplinary early-stage investigators (ESI) at the University of Miami (UM) and Florida International University (FIU). The IDc will provide pilot funding, training, and networking opportunities to create a culture of belonging for ESI working with Latino communities disproportionately affected by the intersecting conditions of substance abuse, violence, HIV/AIDS, and mental health disorders (SAVA+MH). In collaboration with CLaRO’s Community Engagement and Dissemination Core (CEDc), we will integrate community stakeholders in our investigator development efforts to ensure our ESI conduct research that can be translated into practice in affected communities. We will emphasize training in implementation science to accelerate implementation efforts of evidence-based interventions addressing SAVA+MH. Under the U54 mechanism, CLaRO sponsored a comprehensive set of investigator development activities, including an annual Health Disparities Institute attended by 91 ESI from UM and FIU, and supported funding for 17 ESI from UM who leveraged their pilot and supplement awards to achieve over $28 million in NIH funding as PIs. The proposed CLaRO will fully integrate investigator development efforts across UM and FIU. The IDc will leverage the research and training infrastructure of CLaRO, UM and FIU, and associated centers/institutes to further develop the health disparities scientific workforce. The IDc has three Specific Aims: Aim 1: To conduct a Pilot Projects Program for multi-level community-engaged projects related to the CLaRO SAVA+MH implementation science theme that will be foundational to subsequent grant applications. CLaRO will award at least 3 new Pilot Projects each year for a total of $300,000 per year. CLaRO will apply our established process for soliciting, providing preliminary guidance, reviewing, and supporting Pilot Projects, and we will provide sustained mentorship and grant development assistance for Pilot Awardees. Aim 2: To deliver a Research Enhancement Program for Pilot Awardees and other ESI at UM and FIU. Program activities will include (1) training sessions on scientific topics relevant to the CLaRO theme, as well as project management and grantsmanship; (2) Implementation Science Exemplars Series presenting the work of established investigators; and (3) Network-enhancing activities that facilitate a culture of belonging for health disparities researchers. Aim 3: In collaboration with CEDc, connect CLaRO Pilot Awardees and other trainees with community stakeholders for mutually beneficial collaboration.