Building Successful Career Trajectories for Early-Stage Investigators in HIV Research: Reflections from the DC CFAR My Path to Independence Series

Abstract

To support the development of the next generation of HIV researchers, the District of Columbia Center for AIDS Research developed the novel seminar series My Path to Independence, launched in 2022. These seminars host 1-h online sessions in which senior and mid-career-level HIV researchers with diverse expertise reflect on the challenges in their professional journeys, experiences in scientific discoveries, and lessons learned throughout their careers. Attended by 30 to >100 researchers per event, these series have become a valuable component of the Developmental Core program, enabling early-career-stage investigators to acquire career flexibility skills, advance their mentorship approach, and grow their collaborative capacity. Most importantly, these series have played a role in preparing the young generation of scientists for the evolving context of HIV research priorities and changes in the funding landscape. In this perspective, we reflect on three recurring lessons of mentorship, collaboration, and resilience that emerged from these conversations and their relevance to the formation of the new generation of HIV researchers.