Nurturing the global workforce in clinical research: the National Institutes of Health Fogarty International Clinical Scholars and Fellows Program

Abstract

The Fogarty International Clinical Research Scholars and Fellows Program's goal is to foster the next generation of clinical investigators and to help build international health research partnerships between American and international investigators and institutions. Through June 2012, 61 sites in 27 countries have hosted 436 Scholars (American students or junior trainees from the host countries) and/or 122 Fellows (American and host country postdoctoral fellows) for year-long experiences in global health research. Initially, the program was oriented toward infectious diseases, but recently emphasis on chronic disease research has increased. At least 521 manuscripts have been published, many in high-impact journals. Projects have included clinical trials, observational studies, translational research, clinical-laboratory interface initiatives, and behavioral research. Strengths of the program include training opportunities for American and developing country scientists in well-established international clinical research settings, and mentorship from experienced global health experts.

Figure 1.

Numbers of U.S. and international scholars and fellows by year deployed, 2004–2011. Vertical line indicates the year in which the Support Center grant was awarded to the Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health.

Figure 2.

Alumni publications by year, 2004–2010. Vertical line indicates the year in which the Support Center grant was awarded to the Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health. Includes only trainees who have completed a Fogarty International Clinical Research Scholars and Fellows Program–supported year.