Advanced Rehabilitation Research and Training: IDD Research in Culturally Diverse Communities (ARRT)
This advanced postdoctoral training program aims to increase the number of scholars conducting high-quality research on intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in racially and ethnically diverse communities. Over the course of the program, up to six fellows from diverse backgrounds will receive comprehensive training, including mentorship, didactic preparation, and collaboration with a lived-experience advisory board. Fellows will develop expertise in research ethics, IDD knowledge, methodological skills, science communication, grant writing, and career development, with a unique focus on incorporating feedback from self-advocates and family advisors.
The program supports fellows in achieving significant milestones, such as publishing research, presenting at national conferences, creating plain-language materials for the community, and securing funding for future work. Fellows are mentored by a distinguished team with expertise in autism, IDD, underserved communities, and racial and ethnic inequities. Open to all qualified candidates, the program strongly encourages applications from individuals underrepresented in disability research, those with disabilities, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. This initiative is supported by the Texas Center for Disabilities at the Steve Hicks School of Social Work through an award from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research.
