Pathways and Intersections: Multifaceted Approaches to Engage Individuals From Underrepresented and Marginalized Communities in HIV Research and Career Development

Abstract

Background: The underrepresentation of historically marginalized groups in the HIV research workforce is a barrier to reaching national Ending the Epidemic goals.

Setting: The Harvard University Center for AIDS Research (HU CFAR) Diversity Equity and Inclusion Working Group (DEI WG) uses a multifaceted approach to enhance the field's diversity.

Methods: We established a DEI WG to improve the recruitment, inclusion, and retention of underrepresented minorities (URMs) in HIV research. We use community-based, participatory processes to establish and expand education and outreach programs about HIV care and research to better connect the HU CFAR to communities affected by HIV. This article reports on the development of the WG in July 2022, progress in its first year, and future plans.

Results: We have built a network of >50 investigators across the university for monthly meetings; partnered with existing research pathway programs for high school, undergraduate, and graduate students, directly supporting 7 new trainees and linking CFAR investigators to additional mentorship opportunities; and created 2-year Scholar Awards for 5 URM investigators in HIV. Planned work includes needs assessments for early-stage investigators to understand factors contributing to inclusion and retention and new pathway and outreach programming being developed with community partner minority-serving institutions.

Conclusions: The HU CFAR DEI WG strives to ensure that individuals from underrepresented, marginalized, and minoritized communities have an opportunity to contribute to HIV research and that research is informed by the needs of the communities affected by the epidemic. An intersectional approach should be incorporated into HIV research pathway initiatives.