Exploring effective mentorship networks for underrepresented researchers

Understanding the Science of Effective Mentorship Networks for Underrepresented Researchers

NIH-funded research Suny Downstate Medical Center · NIH-10916357

This study is looking at how to improve support for early career researchers from underrepresented groups by creating better mentorship networks with multiple mentors, so they can succeed in their academic careers.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSuny Downstate Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Brooklyn, United States)
Project IDNIH-10916357 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to understand how mentorship networks can better support early career researchers from underrepresented groups in academia. It investigates the limitations of traditional one-on-one mentorship and proposes a model that utilizes multiple mentors to provide diverse support. The study will develop and validate a new tool called Mentorship Network Analysis to assess existing mentorship networks and their impact on research success. Additionally, it will test an intervention designed to help these researchers build effective mentorship networks.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are early career researchers from underrepresented groups in academic settings.

Not a fit: Researchers who are not from underrepresented groups or those who are already well-supported by effective mentorship may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the retention and success rates of underrepresented researchers in academia.

How similar studies have performed: While mentorship networks are a relatively novel approach, there is emerging evidence suggesting that diverse mentorship can improve outcomes for underrepresented groups in academia.

Where this research is happening

Brooklyn, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.