Enhancing Diversity and Productivity of the HIV Behavioral Research Workforce through Research Education Mentoring Programs.

Mentoring programs to enhance diversity in the HIV research workforce, using the research education grant mechanism (R25), were addressed to promote new investigator development in HIV-related behavior and social sciences. The utility and benefits of the R25 mechanism were discussed. Outcome data from publication history and funded grants of mentees from the major racial and ethnic minority backgrounds indicated the success of these programs in promoting HIV-related career development. Next steps and future challenges were addressed for further enhancing the HIV research workforce.