CTSA K12 Program at University of Cincinnati - The University of Cincinnati (UC) Center for Clinical and Translational Science and Training (CCTST) has an excellent record of accomplishment in training the next generation of academic leaders in clinical and translational research. Since 2009, our CCTST KL2 program has appointed and graduated 33 Scholars (2 per year, for 2-year appointments) who demonstrate high retention in translational science careers (94%), a strong publication output ( 1,500 manuscripts), and a solid track record of external funding to support their work (94% have served as Principal Investigator or Co-Investigator of an externally-funded CTR grant), with sum direct costs approaching $400M. Moreover, they are highly engaged in leadership, service, and mentorship. In the present application, we transition from a KL2 to a K12 mechanism and shift our focus towards translational science, which brings new educational needs, training competencies, and new initiatives and innovations unique to our CCTSA hub. As a result, we have designed our K12 Scholars program to address using evidence-based strategies to achieve the following Objectives. We will: (1) attract, recruit, and retain a group of exceptional early career investigators from a broad range of disciplines and across the academic health system who aspire to lead clinical and translational programs of research that align with current NIH/NCATS priorities; (2) accelerate Scholar training toward an independent and sustainable career as a clinical and translational scientist using a multi-layered and tailored mentored research training approach; (3) facilitate the translation of scholarly research into improved health outcomes for all people and communities, resulting in real-world impact; and (4) promote professional development for Scholars to become resilient, engaged, and equipped to lead highly effective research teams. Program activities include executing a rigorous translational research project; training in new core CTS competency domains; tailored experiential learning opportunities; and skill-building in grant writing, scientific communication, and team science. We will also capitalize on our CCTST strengths in community engagement and learning health systems, and professional development domains of leadership and wellness. Achievement of the proposed K12 program’s goals is supported by a robust organizational environment, strong leadership, extensive institutional resources and facilities, an exceptionally accomplished and pool of team scientist mentors and early career applicants, and a well-designed career development plan to maximize Scholar success. Collaboration and integration between unique and thriving training environments synergized via the CCTST 4.0 ideally positions UC to respond innovatively to the K12 mission of the CTSA.
