292 Implementation of community–academic research pilot projects: a qualitative study using the iPARIHS framework

Objectives/Goals: Community-engaged research (CER) helps ensure that research findings reach communities. To support it, we administer a pilot program to foster partnerships, build research capacity, and generate data for larger initiatives. We sought to understand the determinants that influence community research pilot project implementation. Methods/Study Population: The community research award provides 30, 000 and 24 months of support to a community–academic team. Awardees receive CTSA support through a capacity-building orientation, online written and video materials, and optional office hours. We conducted semi-structured interviews with the community and academic leads using an Integrated-Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (i-PARIHS) -based guide to examine how the research project, recipients, context, and facilitation shaped implementation. Transcripts were analyzed using rapid qualitative analysis methods. Two coders independently reviewed each transcript and completed a summary template which were then analyzed by partner type and i-PARIHS construct. Results/Anticipated Results: A total of six community leads and seven academic leads who received funds between 2020 and 2024 were interviewed. Three community partners and three academic partners completed projects. Partner commitment and expertise were emphasized as project facilitators, while role ambiguity and turnover were barriers. Innovation was valued for adaptation to community context and increased capacity; however, some leads noted tensions between research and advocacy goals. Context barriers included limited funding, COVID-19, and shifting CBO, local, and national policies. CTSA-provided Facilitation was mentioned positively by nearly all community leads. Academic leads interacted with the CTSA team primarily when conflicts arose. Discussion/Significance of Impact: The i-PARIHS framework highlighted how strong partnerships, expertise, and adaptation to community context enabled projects, while role ambiguity, turnover, and contextual challenges impeded progress. Strengthening facilitation, clarifying roles and responsibilities, and planning for turnover may enhance future projects.