Liping Du

In this mixed-methods study, we explore themes that emerged from a survey assessing the programmatic experiences of mentors and administrators at institutions in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) hosting trainees supported by the Fogarty International Center’s Global Health Program for Fellows and Scholars. A total of 89 of 170 potential respondents representing 31 countries completed the survey (response rate, 52.4%). There was agreement among respondents that their institutions received sufficient funds to support trainees and had the capacity to manage operational and financial aspects of the program. A majority also agreed that both LMIC and U.S. trainees were beneficial to the host institutions, and that trainee projects were relevant to the needs of the host country. Respondents felt that program benefits to LMIC trainees could be improved by increasing the research consumables budget, increasing the flexibility of program timelines, and increasing engagement between LMIC and U.S. trainees and institutions. Respondents indicated that both U.S. and LMIC trainees behaved professionally (including demonstrating respectful and ethical behavior) and took appropriate initiative to conduct their research projects. Findings from this study will help inform innovations to similar training initiatives that will enhance sustainability and improve program performance, and will be responsive to local needs.

: Training the next generation of global health researchers is vital for sustainable research partnerships and global health equity. The Fogarty International Center (National Institutes of Health) supports postdoctoral fellows and professional/graduate students in long-term, hands-on mentored research in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We surveyed 627 alumni (58% from the United States, 42% from LMICs) from three sequential Fogarty-sponsored global health research training programs (response rate: N = 257, 41%). Publications in the Index Medicus were used to ascertain scholarly output. Most alumni (63%) reported remaining engaged in LMICs and/or worked in academic/research careers (70%). Since completing their Fogarty fellowship, 144 alumni (56%) had received 438 new grants as principal investigator (PI), co-/multi-PI, or site PI. The 257 responding alumni had 5,318 publications during and since their Fogarty fellowships; 2,083 (39%) listed the Fogarty trainee as the first or senior author. These global health training programs highlight the value of LMIC research experience in nurturing the global health research workforce.