Use of individual development plans for nurse scientist training

•IDPs can serve as a mentoring tool that stimulates conversation, facilitates the provision of feedback on goals and achievement of milestones.•Although IDP formats varied across NINR-funded T32s, common areas included engaging in self-assessment, identifying professional/career goals, and stating strategies and tactics to achieve these goals.•Challenges included creating a culture where IDP use is understood and valued.•Data from IDPs can be collated for outcome evaluation and for quality improvement of T32s and academic programs that prepare nurses for scientific careers.