(Separate Fee Required) SSRPCB-4: Research Leadership Institute

This two-hour workshop addresses the unique challenges faced by Associate Professors in Social Work as they strive for promotion to Full Professor while balancing demanding administrative and teaching responsibilities. The Research Leadership Institute (RLI), developed in collaboration with Fellows of the Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR), offers strategic, targeted support to mid-career academics. Participants will gain practical strategies to enhance their research skills, strengthen leadership abilities, and foster professional development.

The RLI’s primary goal is to create a comprehensive strategic plan that outlines activities and support mechanisms tailored to the specific needs of Associate Professors. Over the next three years, these programs will provide consistent, structured support to help mid-career academics progress in their careers. As an initial step, focus groups will be conducted during the 2025 SSWR pre-conference, allowing mid-career scholars to share their challenges and aspirations. Selected SSWR Fellows, who will later serve as mentors to mid-career scholars, will facilitate the focus groups. These Fellows, recognized for their expertise and leadership in social work, will offer valuable guidance throughout the program, helping participants navigate research challenges and professional development. Insights from focus groups will inform the development of a national survey to identify key barriers to career progression and professional development. Based on these findings, the RLI will design targeted programs and initiatives to address these challenges. These programs will be delivered through SSWR pre-conference sessions and year-round virtual meetings, creating a supportive environment that fosters leadership growth, boosts research productivity, and accelerates the path to Full Professor. Over the next three years, RLI programs will be continuously refined through successive SSWR pre-conferences, ensuring they remain responsive to the evolving needs of mid-career scholars.

Attendees will also have opportunities to build collaborative research networks with peers and mentors, engaging in joint projects such as co-authoring manuscripts and drafting grant proposals. This workshop is ideal for Associate Professors committed to advancing their careers by cultivating the leadership skills essential for academic success. By the end of the workshop, participants will be empowered with actionable strategies to unlock their leadership potential, boost research productivity, and navigate the challenges of academic career progression.