153 Development and implementation of a Pilot Summer Training Program for clinical research professionals

Abstract

Objectives/Goals: Skilled clinical research professionals are essential to efficient and effective research teams, but many undergraduate students are not aware of staff-level careers in the field. To address this, the Michigan Institute for Clinical and Health Research launched the Clinical and Health Research Professional (CHRP) Pathways Program. Methods/Study Population: The 10-week hybrid CHRP Pathways Program was piloted in Summer 2024. Undergraduate students interested in research careers were recruited from local universities and community colleges. The program consisted of 8 hours/week of didactic curriculum guided by ECRPTQ competencies and 32 hours/week of mentored work experience on research teams. Classroom activities were completed with participants from a partner program within the university. Surveys were administered at 3 weeks and 10 weeks along with an end-of-program focus group to assess acceptability and self-reported learning outcomes. Results/Anticipated Results: The pilot CHRP Pathways Program enrolled 3 students and was well-received by participating students and mentor research teams. Students agreed that they would recommend the program to their classmates. Students indicated that the program helped them understand the role of a study coordinator, provided insight into research career paths, and helped them form professional relationships. Self-reported confidence levels in a range of research competencies increased. Two students who completed the 10-week program chose to continue working part-time with their research teams while continuing their undergraduate studies. Discussion/Significance of Impact: Experiences like the CHRP Pathways Program provide valuable exposure to staff-level research career opportunities for students engaged in health science studies. They can address an existing workforce gap by equipping college graduates with relevant work experience and basic research competencies.