The Strategic Teamwork for Effective Practice Mentor Development Program (STEP-MDP): Expanding capacity for clinical and translational science by investing in research staff

Abstract

Introduction. Research staff are critical to productive translational research teams, yet their professional development is rarely formally addressed. Methods. We created Strategic Teamwork for Effective Practice Mentor Development Program (STEP-MDP) to promote skills development and build a community of practice. We ran and evaluated the STEP-MDP for 32 participants, which consisted of workshops focusing on team communication and mentorship/coaching skills. Results. We found that STEP-MDP had a long-term positive impact on participants and their teams. Conclusion. This program facilitated the professional development of research staff.