Tales from New York City, the pandemic epicenter: A case study of COVID-19 impact on clinical and translational research training at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

In the spring of 2020, New York City was at the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic in the USA, resulting in disruption of TL1 and KL2-mentored Clinical and Translational Science (CTS) research at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (ISMMS). The impact of the pandemic on trainees’ research productivity and career plans was explored using a qualitative survey. Participant responses were analyzed using coding and categorization. Six key themes emerged: redirection of effort, reduced access to people, lack of access to resources, home as a workplace, future uncertainty, and stress and anxiety. Insight into participant experiences allows for the development of support strategies and resources to address trainee needs.