Prevention and Methodology Training

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT Since 2005 the Prevention and Methodology Training Program (PAMT) T32 has met a critical need in the training of drug abuse prevention scientists by nurturing scientists focused on integrating prevention science and highly innovative methodology. The objective of PAMT, which is unique to NIDA’s portfolio, is to produce scientists who lead the application of cutting-edge methods to emerging critical research needs in the prevention of substance use and addiction. We do this in the context of Penn State’s long-standing dual commitment to innovation in data collection, design, and statistical analysis methods and to impactful research on the etiology and prevention of substance use and addiction across the life span. Building on PAMT’s long- term success training 83 prevention scientists to date, we propose to enhance this successful pre- and post- doctoral training program with (1) increased depth in formal training opportunities related to our core competency domains: substance use, prevention science, and innovative methods; (2) strategic initiatives to build diversity in mentors, trainees, and training; and (3) expanded disciplinary integration by leveraging Penn State’s deep investment in its new Consortium to Combat Substance Abuse. PAMT is administered through the Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center. Drs. Jennifer Maggs and Stephanie Lanza, Program Directors, and Dr. Rina Eiden, Associate Training Director, lead the program as distinguished substance use researchers with expertise in prevention science and innovative methods. To achieve trainees’ individualized training goals, the program offers (1) interdisciplinary instruction on substance use, prevention science, and innovative methods; (2) mentored experiential training in all aspects of research; (3) training in professional skills and the responsible conduct of research; (4) proseminars including workshops on methods, health equity, cultural competence, and goal tracking; (5) a biennial visit to NIH; and (6) formal training in NIH grant-writing, leading to many successful F31, R03, and K99 grant submissions. An Expert Advisory Committee will meet annually to provide feedback and guidance related to training and diversity goals. Faculty mentors are leaders in substance use, prevention science, and innovative methods, with strong track records of NIH support and mentorship of early career scholars. Forty-five faculty mentors span disciplines such as human development and family studies, biobehavioral health, sociology/criminology, psychology, and engineering. Our trainees work toward novel solutions to mounting challenges related to substance use. The proposed renewal supports 7 pre- and 3 post-doctoral trainees per year, with strong institutional support for an additional 3 pre- and 1 post- doctoral trainees per year. Together, this represents 25 pre- and 10 post-doctoral trainees in the 2021-2026 renewal period. PAMT trainees are engaged in cutting-edge work that rigorously integrates new methods into prevention research, providing a seamless, holistic approach to understanding and preventing drug abuse. The scientists we train will be at the forefront of this critical area for many years to come.