Sustained Training in Aging and HIV Research (STAHR)

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This application proposes to continue to develop, implement, and evaluate the highly successful Sustained Training on Aging and HIV Research (STAHR) research training program, which has the goal of expanding the pool of NIMH-funded new investigators performing research of HIV, aging, and mental health. Since the initiation of the program in 2015, the lifespan of people with HIV (PWH) has continued to improve but the healthspan has not improved to the same extent, raising concerns about premature aging. Many key research questions regarding the complex relationship between HIV, aging, and the brain remain unanswered. This emerging field encompasses issues of physical and psychiatric disease, polypharmacy, cognitive impairment, and psychosocial stressors on the one hand, and positive aspects such as resilience and neuroplasticity on the other. Much remains to be learned about mechanisms and interventions for preventing and treating mental illnesses, including cognitive and mood disorders, in older PWH. Fostering the development of researchers with knowledge and expertise in both aging and HIV is critical for the promotion of urgently needed research in this field. The STAHR program builds on the infrastructure and expertise available at two major research programs at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD, the Stein Institute for Research on Aging and the HIV Neurobehavioral Research Program) and addresses several priorities of the NIMH Division of AIDS Research and the NIH Office of AIDS Research. The program targets clinical and translational postdoctoral fellows and junior faculty from across the country who have experience in aging or HIV research, but are interested in gaining expertise in the intersection of these two factors. Four new scholars are selected each year and are matched with a primary mentor at their home institution and a co-mentor at UCSD. Training goals are to increase knowledge and skills in HIV and aging mental health research and support career development, with mentoring being a key focus. Each scholar works with their mentors to develop an Individual Development Plan. Although many of the training activities are performed remotely throughout the 3-year program, we have all scholars and mentors convene annually for a 2-day Workshop at UCSD when public health allows. First year scholars also attend a 4-week Summer Institute that will be part in-person at UCSD and part remote. In its first funding cycle, the STAHR program trained a diverse group of 20 early-career scientists (50% underrepresented minorities). The program’s success thus far is evidenced by the impressive track record of publications, awarded grants, career milestones and the positive program evaluations. Thus far, the program has grown its network of mentors across the U.S., which has supported trainee development and fostered collaborations. With this renewal, the network will continue to grow and serve as a resource for trainees during and after the program. Overall, STAHR strives to develop high quality independently funded investigators, who will make lasting contributions to mental health research in HIV and aging.