7 The UCLA Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) Inspired Workforce Development Pathway Programs

Objectives/Goals: The UCLA Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) training programs have been optimized by clinical research experts since 2013. They inculcate an interest in clinical and translational research careers. The acquisition of new skillsets and early exposure to potential career opportunities often influence lifetime decision-making. Methods/Study Population: The first program, in 2013, was the CTSI Research Associates Program (CTSI-RAP), which exposes undergraduate students to clinical research opportunities. RAP students are now mentoring high school students in the Mentoring and Advocacy in Teaching Clinical and Health-Related Research (MATCH) program. The Fiat Lux seminar is a research course designed to allow freshman students to explore diverse interests. The Leveraging Amazing Undergraduates in Clinical Research at UCLA Health (LAUNCH) program continues the workforce development pipeline by recruiting and training recent graduates to enter clinical research study coordinator careers. Each of these programs has their own stellar track records in terms of high interest and satisfaction and are assessed by annual evaluations from stakeholders. Results/Anticipated Results: CTSI-RAP is in its 11th year and a recent 10-year impact survey demonstrated the value of the program to students and their career decision-making especially those who are underserved and/or disadvantaged. The MATCH program arose from the interest of RAP students to mentor STEM high school students from local disadvantaged schools and is now in its 4th year across the state. The Fiat Lux freshman seminar began with a clinical research essentials emphasis, followed by an FDA/regulatory focus, and is now evolving to highlighting specific innovative areas of research with this year’s course spotlighting Cellular & Gene Therapy/Regenerative Medicine. LAUNCH is now in its third year, having been inspired by graduating RAP students wishing to continue in clinical research and feedback from their own focus groups. Discussion/Significance of Impact: The UCLA CTSI has supported these highly successful workforce development pipeline programs, which have had a demonstrated impact on students and the overall institutional clinical research infrastructure. Their stellar reputations generate high interest at UCLA and serve as model programs for implementation at other academic medical centers.