Northern New England Clinical and Translational Research Network Assesses the Training Needs of Investigators

The Northern New England Clinical and Translational Research (NNE-CTR) Network aims to enhance the region's research capacity and infrastructure with support in research design and technology, professional development and mentorship, and funding for pilot projects. This study sought to identify characteristics of NNE-CTR investigators and their research interests, training needs, and perceived barriers to research.

A registration survey and needs-assessment module were developed and administered to investigators in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Univariate statistics were calculated for all structured items. Bivariate frequencies were generated to assess the relationship between training interests and level of research experience. Content analysis was used to identify common themes.

Of 272 investigators, many were women (60%), white (85%), and physicians (54%). Most respondents reported participating in a research project (88%) and an interest in translational science research (51%). Fewer than half reported receiving extramural funding. Many respondents expressed interest in receiving mentoring and/or training related to study design. Participants with fewer than 3 years of research experience were more likely to report barriers related to lack of time to conduct research, while participants with ≥3 years of experience more often reported inadequate institutional support and challenges in recruiting and identifying patients.

Echoing findings from other needs assessment efforts, this study underscores the need to build core research skills through professional development and to tailor training opportunities to investigator's needs.

Ongoing efforts to match the identified needs and interests with the appropriate resources remains a key feature of the NNE-CTR.