A Process Evaluation of a Program to Retain Clinical Scientists with Caregiving Responsibilities

Caregiving responsibilities in academic science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine disproportionately impact early-career faculty, particularly women, exacerbating stress, mental health challenges, and career progression barriers. The Doris Duke Charitable Foundation (DDCF) launched the Fund to Retain Clinical Scientists to support clinician-scientists facing these challenges, expanding efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai leveraged DDCF funding in 2021 to expand its Distinguished Scholar Award (DSA) program, first launched in 2020.

To enhance faculty support, we convened an interdisciplinary team with expertise in faculty development, integrating tailored programming through collaborative working sessions. In 2022, seven scholars were funded; in 2023, five were awarded. The cohorts represented diverse gender identities, racial and ethnic backgrounds, and research disciplines.

Summative evaluations revealed that 83% of respondents found quarterly check-ins with program directors most useful, followed by "Meet the Expert" sessions (67%). Findings highlight the value of structured mentorship and institutional support in fostering research continuity and gender equity.

Over 2 years, the DSA program provided both financial and professional development support, addressing key challenges faced by junior faculty with caregiving responsibilities. While scholars benefited from mentorship and career development opportunities, participation in additional resources varied, raising questions about how best to balance program structure with flexibility. The ongoing challenge remains on how to equitably support caregivers in science and medicine without adding undue burdens. Our experience underscores the importance of continued dialogue and strategic program refinement to ensure lasting impact.