Developing an engaging and accessible clinical research training program for new investigators

Clinicians who are interested in becoming principal investigators struggle to find and complete training that adequately prepares them to conduct safe, well-designed clinical and translational research. Degree programs covering these skills require a significant time investment, while online trainings lack engagement and may not be specific to local research contexts. Staff at Tufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute sought to fill the gap in junior investigator training by designing an eight-module, noncredit certificate program to teach aspiring clinician-investigators about good clinical practice, clinical research processes, and federal and local regulatory requirements. The first iteration of this program was evaluated using pre- and posttest questionnaires and by gathering clinician learner feedback in a focus group. Based on the pre- and posttest questionnaires, learners experienced an increase in self-efficacy and confidence related to clinical research competencies. Feedback from learners also highlighted important program strengths, including an engaging program format, a manageable time commitment, and an emphasis on identifying crucial research resources. This article describes one approach to creating a meaningful and efficient clinical trial training program for clinicians.