185 A Clinical and Translational Science manuscript writing support program for research staff

Abstract

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: The objective of this initiative was to promote MICHR staff’s production of Clinical and Translational Science publications. MICHR leadership approved this initiative, including an evaluation plan with measurable outcomes goals, and contracted with an experienced scientific writing coach with over 20 years of experience working with CTSAs. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: A sequential mixed methods program evaluation designs was used. Pre- and post-surveys were used to measure participating staff’s gain in skill, understanding & satisfaction. An interview with the instructor was then conducted to characterize staff performance, and identify possible areas of programmatic improvement. This initial phase of the program evaluation was conducted in the Summer of 2023. The results were used to inform an expansion of the program to include more staff in the the Fall of 2023. Pre- and post-program surveys of the participants were conducted and interviews with each program participant were conducted. Finally, interviews with non-participating staff were conducted to assess their need for writing support and the challenges and facilitators of their scientific writing. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: Preliminary evaluation results obtained in the summer of 2023 were positive. All participants completed the course, and spent an average of 3.3 hours working between sessions. Six manuscripts were developed, five of which are being readied for submission and one submitted as of August 2023. Analysis of the pre-and post-program surveys indicated that all participants gained writing skill and authorship knowledge. Specifically, they gained confidence in 7 writing skills and 6 first-author roles evaluated during the course. All participants were satisfied with their experience and recommended the course to their colleagues, and the course instructor was also satisfied with the course. However, the participants noted that competing work demands and variable preparation hindered their work in the course. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: With the increasing focus on Clinical and Translational Science taking place across the CTSA Consortium it is important to involve research staff in paper writing teams, including in first-author roles. Professional development in scientific writing can support Clinical and Translational Research staff contributing to this emerging science.