Project Mentor
Dr. Chenglin Hong
Department: Social Work
Research Project Overview:
The SHARE apprentice will assist with a systematic review and meta-analysis examining intimate partner violence (IPV) among sexual minority men (SMM) living with HIV. IPV is a significant yet understudied public health issue in this population. SMM living with HIV face unique challenges, including intersecting stigma, discrimination, and relationship dynamics that may increase their risk of experiencing IPV. Additionally, IPV can negatively impact HIV care engagement, treatment adherence, and overall health outcomes. This project aims to synthesize existing research to provide a comprehensive understanding of IPV prevalence, risk factors, and health consequences among SMM living with HIV.
The apprentice will contribute to key aspects of the systematic review process, including literature searches, study screening, and data extraction. They will work as part of a research team that includes faculty, PhD students, and undergraduate research assistants, gaining exposure to interdisciplinary collaboration. The faculty advisor has a strong track record of publications, including high impact systematic review and meta-analysis in leading journals, with 46 peer-reviewed journal articles, including 25 as first author and 5 as sole author. The findings of this study will contribute to a peer-reviewed journal article in Trauma, Violence, and Abuse or ADIS and Behavior, and a conference abstract in the International AIDS Conference. Through this apprenticeship, the student will develop research skills, engage with LGBTQ+ health and HIV research, and contribute to a project with real-world public health implications.
In addition, the faculty advisor has received a seed grant from the OVPR Scholarship Facilitation Fund to hire a graduate student for this project. This SHARE program will be a great addition, allowing undergraduate students to engage in meaningful research and work alongside graduate students in a structured mentorship environment. By the end of the apprenticeship, the student will have developed essential research skills and a deeper understanding of health disparities affecting marginalized communities.
Role of a SHARE Summer Apprentice:
The SHARE apprentice will play an integral role in the systematic review and meta-analysis by contributing to multiple research activities. They will assist with literature searches using academic databases, screen studies for inclusion based on predefined criteria, and extract relevant data for synthesis. Additionally, they will have opportunities to engage in data organization and preliminary analysis, helping to identify patterns in IPV prevalence, risk factors, and health outcomes among SMM living with HIV.
Through this apprenticeship, the student will develop key research skills, including systematic review methodologies, critical analysis, and data management. They will also gain experience working collaboratively within an interdisciplinary research team, fostering professional development and mentorship opportunities. This experience will enhance their ability to critically evaluate public health literature, contribute to scholarly writing, and apply research findings to real-world issues.
Beyond technical skills, the apprentice will deepen their understanding of LGBTQ+ health disparities, HIV prevention and care, and the broader social determinants of health. By the end of the apprenticeship, they will be well-equipped with foundational research skills that can be applied to future academic and professional endeavors in public health, social work, and related fields.
Summer Schedule/Time Commitment:
Previous experience in conducting systematic reviews and meta-analyses is not required, as the faculty advisor will provide step-by-step guidance throughout the process. However, a strong interest in LGBTQ+ health and sexual and gender minority health is highly valued.
The student should be able to work collaboratively with the research team, demonstrating the ability to engage effectively, meet deadlines, and contribute to the overall success of the project. There is also potential for the apprentice to continue involvement in the project beyond the summer, with opportunities for future publications and research engagement.
In addition, students should consider their availability to attend weekly check-ins and biweekly team meetings, which will be conducted virtually. Participation in these meetings will be crucial for the apprentice’s professional development and for fostering collaboration with the research team and the Sexuality & Health Innovation and Collaboration (SHIC) lab.
Preferred Qualifications:
Preferred qualifications include experience in conducting systematic reviews, basic math and statistics, or research methods. However, these skills are not required, and students without this training are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants with coursework or academic interests in public health, social work, LGBTQ+ health, or sexual and gender minority studies are encouraged to apply. A strong interest in social justice, health disparities, and HIV prevention will also be considered a valuable asset. We are looking for students who are motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to learn in a collaborative research environment.
I encourage all students, regardless of background or previous experience, to apply. Diversity in thought, experience, and perspective is highly valued in this research environment.
To Apply:
The application opens on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Click here to submit an online application for this research apprenticeship through the Quest Portal. The application deadline is Friday, March 28, 2025, at 11:59pm.
Click here to view an outline of the general application questions. In addition to the general questions, students will be asked to respond to the following question:
- Please briefly describe your motivation for pursuing this apprenticeship, particularly their interest in LGBTQ+ health, intimate partner violence, and HIV prevention. (750 words max)
Please note:
All students hired for a SHARE Summer apprenticeship must complete a federal I-9 form and present original documents in person to OUR staff as part of the hiring process. Visit this U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services page for more information about acceptable documents. You cannot begin working until this is complete. Students are encouraged to plan ahead for this. For example, if you are going home for spring break, consider bringing original documents back to campus with you.