Comprehensive Advancement in Research Education and Training for Social Determinants of Health (CARES) Program

Welcome to the CARES Program at Yale School of Nursing

At CARES, we are dedicated to addressing the critical gaps in education and training for nursing researchers with a focus on Social Determinants of Health (SDOH).

Funded by the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR), the CARES program empowers early-career nursing scholars, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, by providing comprehensive training in SDOH research fundamentals, innovative methodologies, structural interventions, and network-building, along with ongoing mentorship and support.

Join us in advancing SDOH research, promoting health equity, and improving health outcomes in communities!

Why CARES is Unique

What makes CARES special? We are transforming the training experience with these innovative elements:

• Interdisciplinary Connections and Mentorship
• Immersive Simulation-Based Learning
• Community Engagement

What We Offer

We will host three training cohorts, each consisting of 6-8 participants, throughout the program over a three-year period.

• CARES course curriculum and 10 modules of SDOH research methodology
• CARES Summer Institute (4 weeks total: 2-week in-person and 2-week hybrid): simulation-based (virtual reality component) training, community engagement, workshops, etc.
• Seminars: various research and career development seminars
• Multidisciplinary mentorship: mentor-scholar and peer mentorship
• Pilot study development and grant writing: hand-on mentoring and training
• Professional network: Online Network and Resources Hub during and after the summer session throughout the program
• Program conferences and other scientific conferences

What Other Support

• Travel funds will be provided to support CARES Scholars attending the Summer Institute.
• There is no cost to participate in the CARES program.

Who is Eligible to Apply

• We welcome early-career nursing scholars, including postdoctoral fellows, junior faculty (Assistant Professors), and faculty new to NIH funding, with a special focus on those from underrepresented backgrounds.
• Scholars across the United States are encouraged to apply, particularly those from underserved areas.

Submit Your Application

The application process is straightforward and efficient. All Applicants are invited to submit the following materials:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): A current CV outlining your academic and professional background.
• A research interest statement: A one-page document that describes your research interests and motivations for pursuing SDOH research.
• Institutional Support: A letter of institutional support is required, demonstrating the applicant’s access to protected time and encouragement to pursue the program. Acceptable documentation includes a letter from the dean, department chair, supervisor, or research mentor at your home institution.

Please use the Qualtrics form linked here to submit your application.

Important Dates (1^st Cohort)

Contact Information:

Xiaomei S. Cong, PhD, RN, FAAN

Professor and Associate Dean of Research

Yale University School of Nursing

400 West Campus/Room 32306

Tel: 203-737-4916

Email: r25CARES@yale.edu

Funded by NIH NINR (1R25NR021367)

Yale IRB #2000037685;

Yale IRB at (203) 785-4688 or hrpp@yale.edu

We look forward to hearing from you!