Diverse research teams have been demonstrated to boost creativity and productivity yet is lacking in our current scientific workforce. iDRIV has a foundational commitment to supporting the success of brilliant quality investigators AND also sees the crucial value of creating a network of diverse researchers in order to enhance our mission to improve human health. This year-long program seeks to jump start and drive the research journey of early career and aspiring faculty at UVA through education, coaching, mentoring and sponsorship, designed to support those researchers who are nationally underrepresented in clinical and translational science.

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The iDRIV program consists of monthly 1.5-hour collaborative sessions on topics such as:

• finding research resources

• networking

• time management

• promoting oneself on social media

• giving effective presentations

• promotion & tenure

• difficult conversations

• writing productivity

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In addition, the program requires all participants to take part in a proposal development workshop. Each session is a mix of presentations and panel discussions with opportunities for the participants to share their experiences. Through this mentorship program, we aim to improve career outcomes and work culture for URMs, thus diversifying and improving the quality of the research workforce.

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For the 2022-2023 (August-July) cycle the following UVA School of Medicine departments are providing support for this program (only applicants from these departments are eligible to apply):

• Medicine

• Pathology

• Pediatrics

• Dermatology

• Urology

• Surgery

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Eligibility: Participants must meet the following:

1. Fellows, Clinical Instructor, Assistant Professor, Early Associate Professor (<5 years) and Post-Doctoral Candidates

2. Committed to a career in clinical, basic or translational research

3. Meet the NIH definition of underrepresented persons in biomedical research NIH Definition

 

Program Director: Sana Syed, MD ss8xj@virginia.edu

Program Manager: Jennifer Phillips, RN jvp8a@virginia.edu

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*This program is currently accepting applications, please contact Jennifer Phillips for more information.