The Johns Hopkins NeuroHIV Comorbidities Scholar Program (JH-Neurophytes)

Across the USA the incidence of new HIV infections continues at a high level with 49% of all new HIV infections between 2018-2022 occurring in the southern region of the USA. With antiretroviral therapy people with HIV (PWH) are aging, with 72% in the USA stating that they feel healthy. However, age-associated conditions including neurologic and neuropsychiatric disorders, cardiovascular disease, liver and kidney disorders, osteoporosis, specific cancers, and metabolic dysfunction continue to be challenges for a significant proportion of PLWH. A biomedical workforce trained in the principles of foundational basic and clinical research is needed to address these ongoing challenges. Those armed with the research skills and education can help advance basic science findings through the preclinical research pipeline, and ultimately to bedside practice thereby, improving human health. Over the last five years, our research-intensive training program focused on the neurologic and mental health impacts of HIV infection for undergraduates, exceeded our goal by 40% in the total number trained. Thirty-nine percent have matriculated to graduate-, medical-, or nursing school, or are employed as research scientists in academic laboratories. Forty-three percent continue as juniors or seniors in college with majors in neuroscience, or the biological sciences. Several are published authors, with additional publications expected. In total, 82% of participants remain on target to pursue advanced graduate degrees and remain engaged in basic or clinical research. The purpose of the proposed training program is to significantly increase the persistence, and hasten the career progression of undergraduates and masters level students to graduate level training in neuroHIV or closely aligned research area. Participants will be engaged with program staff and their mentors over one-year using a combination of virtual and in-person training tools. The trainee’s experience will culminate with their 10-week in-person research intensive and presentation at a campus-wide scientific symposium. The year-long engagement will foster a sense of community among trainees within their lab groups and among program participants overall. We fully expect that with productive interactions, irrespective of the outcomes of their research, program alumni, armed with their newly acquired scientific know-how, social capital and resources, we expect that the long-term goals of the proposed training will endure far beyond the confines of the program.