Leadership Academy

Building the Next Generation of HIV Investigators

As part of our commitment to fostering the next generation of HIV investigators, SD CFAR has established a Leadership Academy. Supported
by both the Administrative and Developmental Cores, the Academy provides training opportunities for emerging investigators preparing to step into
HIV leadership positions.

How the Program Works

The Leadership Academy invites promising emerging investigators to apply for a Leadership Trainee role within one of our Cores. Successful
applicants are approved by the SD CFAR Operations Team and the relevant Core Director(s).

Selected participants partner with a Core Director for one to two years, participating in the day-to-day administrative activities of the Core.
During their tenure, Trainees develop skills relevant to running a Core, including:

• Interacting with researchers who seek Core services
• Evaluating new technologies and grant applications
(depending on the Core’s mission)
• Preparing NIH progress reports
• Managing personnel
• Strategic planning
• Leading new initiatives within the Core

Eligibility & Qualifications

Required Eligibility
• Faculty appointment at an SD CFAR member institution: UCSD, SDSU, Scripps Research, or LJI
• Experience with HIV-related research
• Familiarity with SD CFAR
• Available to attend monthly SD CFAR Core Directors’ meetings (currently via Zoom; traditionally in-person the second Tuesday of the month, 9:00–10:00 AM PT)
• Available to participate in SD CFAR strategic planning retreats

Research & Funding Experience
• Experience with grant reviewing
• History of publications and peer-reviewed grant funding
• Experience working with NIH
• Ability to prepare noncompeting and competing  renewal applications for NIAID, and respond to ad hoc requests

Leadership Qualities
• Innovative and productive researcher
• Experienced mentor
• Experience with research training and education
• Leadership and management skills
• Collaborative, interdisciplinary, team-oriented mindset
• Diplomatic, strategic, and innovative thinker