The Fogarty International Center (FIC) invites applications for administrative supplements to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in FIC research training programs (D43, U2R). Research shows that diverse teams working together and capitalizing on innovative ideas and distinct perspectives outperform homogenous teams. Scientists and trainees from diverse backgrounds and life experiences bring different perspectives, creativity, and individual enterprise to address complex scientific problems. There are many benefits that flow from a diverse NIH-supported scientific workforce, including: fostering scientific innovation, enhancing global competitiveness, contributing to robust learning environments, improving the quality of the research, advancing the likelihood that underserved or health disparity populations participate in, and benefit from health research, and enhancing public trust. A diverse global health workforce increases the probability that the health needs of all populations within society will be addressed and increases the creativity and robustness of scientific research.
In spite of tremendous advancements in scientific research, information, educational and research opportunities are not equally available to all. FIC encourages institutions to diversify their trainee populations to enhance the participation of individuals from groups that are underrepresented in the biomedical, clinical, behavioral and social sciences, such as individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Establishing and maintaining scientific environments that are inclusive and can cultivate and benefit from a full range of talents is not only essential for the quality and impact of science, but it is also a matter of good stewardship of federal funds to ensure that the most talented researchers are recruited, supported, and advanced to become competitive research investigators.
For purposes of this NOSI, we encourage applicants to recruit prospective candidates for training opportunities from diverse backgrounds, including those from groups underrepresented in the biomedical, clinical, behavioral and social science research workforce within the United States (US). For participating low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), we encourage recruitment of prospective candidates from groups that are underrepresented in biomedical, clinical, behavioral and social science research in that country, and/or (for both US and LMIC candidates) that are members of institutions that have historically served individuals from underserved communities and have capacity to engage in biomedical research.
The scientific focus for research training is not restricted, but we welcome applications that include research projects that address the health needs of health disparity populations in LMICs. Health disparities (HD) are preventable differences in health status and outcomes that adversely affect certain populations. Research on health disparities examines the influence of environment, social determinants, and other underlying mechanisms leading to differences in health outcomes. Health disparity populations should be determined on a country-by-country basis and may include underserved populations such as rural residents, groups with disabilities, immigrants and displaced populations, and sexual and gender minorities, among others. Health disparities create health inequities. Health disparities and disparity populations may be defined differently in different countries.
The objective of this initiative is to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in FIC research training programs (D43, U2R). Applicants should propose to provide a foundation in research design, methods, and analytic techniques appropriate for the proposed research area in an inclusive research environment that welcomes contributions from trainees of all backgrounds. Training may include mentored research projects, practicums, workshops, short courses, networking, career mentoring or other activities that can be accomplished within the supplement award year.
Application Due Date(s) – June 23, 2023
NOT-TW-23-006
Eligible parent grants are limited to D43 and U2R research training grants that have at least one year remaining at the time of submission, exclusive of no cost extensions. The contact PI of the parent grant must submit the application. Recipients in or working in South Africa should review the “related announcement” NOT-TW-23-005 [Phase 2 of the U.S.-South Africa Program for Collaborative Biomedical Research: Administrative Supplement Opportunity for South African International Research Training Grants (D43; U2R)]. Only one application total may be submitted to either this or the companion opportunity.