Increasing Diversity and Capacity in HIV Behavioral and Social Science Research: Reflections and Recommendations From the Inaugural Cohort of the Mid-Atlantic CFAR Consortium (MACC) Scholars Program.

Problem Statement: There is a need to increase diversity among both researchers and participants in the area of HIV scholarship. The Mid-Atlantic Center for AIDS Research Consortium (MACC) Scholars Program was developed to promote diversity among HIV-related researchers and participants. Approach: Four Scholars were provided with mentorship from senior investigators at Johns Hopkins University, George Washington University, and the University of Pennsylvania. Each Scholar was awarded a grant to develop a pilot study on a topic related to HIV-prevention, treatment, or care. The paper will describe the benefits of the program, challenges that Scholars faced in their projects, and areas for growth of the program from the perspective of the Scholars. Findings: The Scholars unanimously agreed that the program was essential for gathering pilot data and for receiving practical training in grantsmanship and writing. For challenges, each Scholar encountered unanticipated delays in regulatory approval, resulting in a lag of project start-up. As an indication of the success of the program, Scholars reported on their productivity for grantsmanship, scientific publications, and grantsmanship over the first year of the program. Finally, the Scholars offered several suggestions for continuing to improve the MACC Program for future cohorts. Conclusion: The Scholars perceived the inaugural year of the MACC Scholars Program as extremely helpful and productive. Ongoing efforts should be made to continue to promote the development of diverse junior scientists in HIV research.