Promoting Academic Workforce Diversity in Translational Behavioral & Cardio-Metabolic Research (PINNACLE) - Project Summary:
The T32 program ‘Promoting Academic Workforce Diversity in Translational Behavioral & Cardio-Metabolic
Research (PINNACLE)’ at the University of Miami (UM) leverages our experience directing several URM-
focused training programs over the past 15 years. The program provides an innovative, theory-based
mentored learning experience anchored in an environment of inclusive excellence to promote academic
careers of URM postdoctoral mentees. Its programmatic components are informed by the Theory of
Planned Behavior, the Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory, and the Ibarra-Thomas Theory. During the two
academic years, mentees will receive didactic training in cardio-metabolic, behavioral, and digital health
sciences by attending structured courses and workshops at the CTSI’s MS in Clinical Translational
Investigation and the NHLBI-funded PRIDE Institute. Consistent with recommendations of the NIH Office of
Intramural Training & Education, scholars will participate in individualized and group learning exercises to
improve skills in critical thinking, verbal and written communication, time management and other soft skills
necessary for academic advancement. They will be mentored while implementing their IDP, including
acquisition of professional and lab-based research skills, peer networking, and grant writing. We will
implement and evaluate the program for 5 years and track mentees’ achievements for 10 years post
completion. Specific outcomes will include number of: 1) peer-reviewed publications and professional
presentations; 2) leadership positions, retention and promotion; 3) awards; and 4) federal and non-federal
grants. We will also evaluate mentees’ characteristics (self-efficacy, intrinsic motivation, and resilience) that
predict academic success pre and post matriculation. The specific program aims are: 1) To select qualified
postdoctoral URM mentees (e.g., PhD, MD, or MD/PhD) with great potential to become innovative and
creative leaders in the scientific community, applying translational behavioral models to study and reduce
risk of cardio-metabolic diseases (e.g., obesity, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and sleep apnea); 2)
To increase mentees’ academic self-efficacy to pursue independent research in translational behavioral
cardio-metabolic health. This intensive 2-year program provides exposure to multidisciplinary research
methods and digital health technologies utilized to study cardio-metabolic diseases and exposure to
instructions to enhance leadership and career development skills; 3) To provide coaching, mentorship, and
sponsorship to URM scientists to facilitate entry in academia and transition as independent researchers.
PINNACLE will address a critical deficiency in the academic workforce by mentoring a total of 12 URM
postdoctoral mentees to pursue careers in translational behavioral and cardio-metabolic research. This will
have a strong impact in achieving Healthy People 2030 goal to diversify the academic workforce, thus
expanding the capacity to implement translational behavioral models to improve health equity.