Development of researchers in minority health and health disparities

Background: Data consistently reveal underrepresentation of minorities at all levels of higher education, particularly in the biomedical, behavioral, and science fields (NCES 2012). The National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) Research Infrastructure in Minority Institutions (RIMI) program seeks to address this fundamental challenge. California State University Long Beach (CSULB), as a Hispanic Serving Insittution in the most diverse city in the U.S. is uniquely poised to meet this challenge. Objective: The CSULB RIMI Student Core is designed to support racial and ethnic minorities' quest to become skilled researchers and contribute to the elimination of health disparities. Methods: Four to six health scholars with demonstrated interest in, and commitment to, the related fields of health equities are selected annually among CSULB master's degree students from any discipline. Those selected are paired with a university health research center or faculty researcher to conduct health research among underserved populations. RIMI health scholars also attend monthly training seminars that cover topics including Research Ethics, Community-based Participatory Research, Focus Group Techniques, Motivational Interviewing, and Qualitative and Quantitative Evaluation. RIMI scholars also meet monthly as a cohort and receive travel funds to attend one national academic conference. Each scholar presents research in at least one academic forum per year. Results: Summative interviews on the most helpful aspects of the Health Scholar program as identified by 12 past participants will be presented. In addition, follow-up interviews with former participants indicate that approximately 50% have been admitted to PhD programs. Conclusion: Academic enrichment training programs provide a successful mechanism to motivate future professionals, particularly the first generation-educated, to pursue and persist in health disparity and public health careers.