PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT Addressing the intertwined crises of opioid overdose and HIV within the criminal–legal system (CLS) necessitates focused and coordinated public health interventions. To tackle these significant challenges, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has initiated the Justice HIV and Overdose Research Network, prompting the creation of a dedicated Coordination Center. RTI International proposes to establish a Coordination Center, termed the EngageData Hub: Collaborative Solutions for Justice, HIV, and Overdose, leveraging its extensive expertise and resources to foster effective network coordination and enhance communication across multiple research entities and a patient engagement resource center (Aim 1). This center will also prioritize comprehensive stakeholder engagement by employing a conceptually driven strategy to involve diverse and high-risk populations, ensuring that the research is both relevant and inclusive (Aim 2). Furthermore, the EngageData Hub aims to ensure that research findings are rapidly and effectively translated into practice, using innovative dissemination strategies to reach professional audiences and community stakeholders alike (Aim 3). Additionally, the EngageData Hub will facilitate the design and implementation of annual Rapid Research Projects to address emerging scientific priorities swiftly, adapting Agile methodologies to the research context for enhanced responsiveness and impact (Aim 4). Lastly, the EngageData Hub will develop robust data harmonization processes and support infrastructure, including the establishment of common data elements and comprehensive data management systems to ensure data integrity and utility across the network (Aim 5). The project will be led by multiple Principal Investigators, Drs. Emmanuel Oga and Jessica Cance, along with a team of experienced core leaders, Co-Investigators, and scientific advisors, all equipped to handle the complexities of merging diverse research streams and translating findings into practical health solutions.

PROJECT NARRATIVE The United States faces significant challenges from drug overdoses and HIV, especially among populations involved in the criminal–legal system. A Justice HIV and Overdose Research Network will be established to address the intertwined crises of drug overdose and HIV within the U.S. criminal–legal system. The proposed Coordination Center at RTI International, termed the RTI EngageData Hub, aims to enhance the effectiveness of interventions through robust scientific coordination, data management, focused community engagement, and rigorous research dissemination.