NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Training Indigenous scientists to lead substance use research

Official title: Preparing Indigenous Scientists to Lead Innovative Substance Use Research: The Native Children's Research Exchange Scholars Program

Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10985598 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is helping early career Indigenous scientists learn how to do important research on substance use issues that affect Indigenous kids and teens, using methods that respect both science and their cultural backgrounds.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project startSeptember 1, 2024
Project endJune 30, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$269,974
NIH project number1R25DA061492-01
Project IDNIH-10985598 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include Indigenous youth aged 0-20 years who are affected by or at risk for substance use disorders.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not identify as Indigenous or are outside the age range of 0-20 years may not receive direct benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research program aims to empower early career Indigenous scientists to conduct innovative research on substance use disorders affecting Indigenous populations, particularly children and adolescents. It focuses on developing culturally relevant research methodologies that integrate scientific and cultural knowledge. By fostering the skills of Indigenous researchers, the program seeks to address the significant inequities in substance use disorders faced by American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities. Participants will engage in mentorship and collaborative projects that enhance their research capabilities and community impact.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for substance use disorders in Indigenous youth, ultimately enhancing their health and well-being.

How similar studies have gone: Previous initiatives aimed at increasing Indigenous representation in health research have shown promise, indicating that this approach could be effective in addressing substance use disparities.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Colorado Denver
    Aurora, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Ivanich, Jerreed Dean — University of Colorado Denver
  • Study coordinator: Ivanich, Jerreed Dean

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.