Enhancing Diversity of the Public Health Research Workforce: The Summer HIV/AIDS Research Program (SHARP)

Background: The NIH aims to increase diversity in the public health research workforce and recognizes the value of emersion programs that engage individuals at the undergraduate level.

Methods: The Summer HIV/AIDS Research Program (SHARP) is an NIMH-funded program designed to inspire interest in HIV prevention research among undergraduate students from underrepresented backgrounds. This 12-week paid experience at the San Francisco Department of Public Health offers selected scholars a mentored research project, weekly seminars, and opportunities to network with faculty and peers. Digital media is used to engage scholars prospectively. A mixed method evaluation was performed at the completion of the program including informant interviews and a 42-item survey; alumni report their employment and school status annually.

Results: Of 153 applicants, 10 scholars were selected to participate in our first two cohorts, all of whom identified as underrepresented minorities. All completed the summer program and reported a moderate to large gain in knowledge about the ethical conduct of research as well as the ability to analyze data, interpret results, and work independently. Eight of the ten alumni reported they were likely or very likely to participate in another research experience as a student, and six have obtained a position in public health research or entered graduate school. Four have presented their work at national conferences.

Conclusions: A novel, multi-component summer research program for minority undergraduates is a promising approach to expand the pipeline of diverse public health scientists. Efforts to sustain scholar interest over time and track career trajectories are warranted.