Indigenous Nursing Research Enhancement (INRE) Fellowship Program
University of Texas at Austin, United States of America

 

Purpose: The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing (UT-SON) is implementing a unique Indigenous Nursing Research Enhancement (INRE) fellowship program. INRE fellows are receiving support for 18 months (virtual and in-person) to further their development as researchers focused on addressing health inequities among Native/Indigenous people/communities. The intent of INRE is to support fellows while they maintain full-time faculty positions.

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Methods: Research enrichment topics via Zoom sessions; nurturing/mentorship by health scientists conducting research among Native/Indigenous populations; financial support for a pilot research project; attendance to an Indigenous mentorship/networking workshop; summer research immersion experience within a tribal community; conference attendance/presentation; and summer workshop at UT-SON.

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Results: The INRE fellows are implementing the following pilot research projects: 1) food sovereignty among Southeast Alaska tribes, 2) barriers to help-seeking after experiences of violence among Indigenous women, and 3) perinatal mental health of Indigenous women.

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Conclusions: The INRE fellowship program contributes to its program fellows’ abilities to: 1) conduct appropriate research among Native/Indigenous populations using appropriate methodologies; 2) demonstrate a commitment to completing 18 months of fellowship training, and 3) articulate a commitment to a career in research to promote the health and wellbeing of Native/Indigenous people and communities.