"Training Future Scientists to Address Global Health Disparities (MHIRT)", Johis Ortega, PhD, PI

The training program's aim is to encourage and prepare individuals from diverse backgrounds to conduct health disparities research and to prepare for careers with the primary goal of improving minority health and reducing health disparities.


The training program will be strengthened by existing exchange agreements and by two existing centers of excellence at the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies (UMSONHS) – 1)The NIMHD-funded Center of Excellence for Health Disparities Research: El Centro/The Center for Latino Health Research Opportunities (CLaRO), and 2)The PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Human Resources Development and Patient Safety. We will partner with 7 institutions in 6 countries - Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Mexico, and Peru - where the UMSONHS and the University of Miami established student study abroad programs and training/research agreements. The program will be evaluated for process and outcome indicators annually, and trainees will be tracked yearly for a period of 10 years to assess program impact on the intermediate and long-term goals of the training: a career in HD research (e.g., pursuing a PhD) and success as an HD researcher.