# Inspiring diverse researchers in Virginia: Cultivating research excellence through a career-building program

## TL;DR

A program in Virginia supports underrepresented early-career biomedical researchers, helping them achieve career milestones and improve diversity in the field.

## Contribution

The iDRIV program demonstrates a successful model for supporting underrepresented researchers through mentorship and career development.

## Key findings

- 38% of iDRIV participants achieved career milestones like awards or funding.
- The program has enrolled 24 participants, with high representation from underrepresented groups.
- The initiative serves as a replicable model for improving diversity in biomedical research.

## Abstract

Historically underrepresented groups in biomedical research have continued to experience
low representation despite shifting demographics. Diversity fosters inclusive, higher
quality, and innovative team science. One avenue for diversifying research teams is
integrating diversity-focused initiatives into Clinical and Translational Science Award
(CTSA) Programs, such as the integrated Translational Health Research Institute of
Virginia (iTHRIV). In 2020, iTHRIV participated in Building Up, developed by the
University of Pittsburgh CTSA, and intended to increase representation and improve career
support for underrepresented groups in the biomedical workforce. Drawing lessons from this
study, iTHRIV implemented the “inspiring Diverse Researchers in Virginia” (iDRIV) program.
This yearlong program provided education, coaching, mentoring, and sponsorship for
underrepresented early career investigators in the biomedical workforce. To date, 24
participants have participated in the program across three cohorts. Participants have been
predominantly female (92%), with 33% identifying as Hispanic/Latinx, 29% as Black, and 13%
as Asian. Notably, 38% of scholars have subsequently achieved at least one accomplishment,
such as receiving a local research honor or award and an extramural funding award from a
foundation or federal agency. The iTHRIV iDRIV program serves as a model for providing
career support to developing investigators from underrepresented backgrounds, with the
overall goal of improving patient health.