206 Implementation of a clinical and translational research pathway for medical students at six sites across Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho (WWAMI) regions

Abstract

Objectives/Goals: The Clinical and Translational Research (CTR) pathway aims to increase the number of health science professionals participating in CTR in their careers throughout the WWAMI Region (Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho). Methods/Study Population: The first cohort of thirty-one students started in January 2024 and were organized into three groups that met weekly. One in-person group of students in Anchorage, AK; one in-person group in Seattle, WA; and a group of students from across the WWAMI region convened virtually. Students completed a year-long series of elective courses addressing fundamental concepts of designing, conducting, and presenting the results of a research project. Over the summer between year 1 and year 2 of medical school, students dedicated 8 weeks to full-time research activities under the supervision of their research project mentor. In Fall 2024, students prepared and presented research posters at regional poster sessions and abstracts and oral presentations for submission to the Western Medical Research Conference in January 2025. Results/Anticipated Results: The ultimate goal of the CTR pathway is to increase the number of medical providers across the WWAMI region with significant awareness, interest, and experience in research. Many students hesitate to engage in research due to a perceived lack of necessary skills. The CTR pathway addresses this gap by equipping students with the research competencies needed to participate confidently in scientific inquiry. Feedback from the inaugural cohort has been overwhelmingly positive, with many students highlighting how the CTR pathway enhanced their confidence and knowledge, empowering them to execute their proposed research projects successfully. Our second cohort of students joined the CTR pathway in January 2025. Discussion/Significance of Impact: The CTR pathway positions early medical students to engage in research more deeply during their medical training and prepares them to seek additional training opportunities toward a career in research. The majority of students in the first cohort were located at regional sites and many have interest in practicing in rural or underserved areas.