CTSA K12 Program at University of Rochester - The University of Rochester Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) Research Career Development Program is committed to preparing translational scientists and forming these individuals as “T-shaped” professionals who possess deep disciplinary expertise and the ability to communicate across disciplines. Our approach is aligned with the CTSI’s emphasis on creating innovative approaches that advance translational science and improve population health. We will support four K12 Scholars (2 each year) with appointments of two years duration. The objectives of our K12 program are to: 1) Recruit outstanding Scholars and provide each with a foundational curriculum in translational science and scholar-centric training that incorporates the essential characteristics of a translational scientist; 2) Enhance Scholars’ training experience, and facilitate networking through collaboration with other CTSA hubs and UR training programs; 3) Leverage the CTSI’s priorities and robust resources in three areas of specializations – Clinical Trials, Dissemination and Implementation, and Digital Health/Emerging Artificial Intelligence in Translational Science; and 4) Continuously evaluate and identify areas for quality improvement in response to evolving needs. We have an outstanding roster of Program Faculty that includes 70 dedicated and established Mentors from three University of Rochester Schools (Medicine & Dentistry, Nursing, and Arts, Science, and Engineering) to provide rich and multidisciplinary expertise. Training and career development will occur in a structured environment that comprises core programmatic and customizable elements, with a carefully selected mentorship committee with complementary research expertise, guided by each Scholar’s background and career goals in order to promote a successful transition to becoming an independent translational investigator. Recruitment and selection plans include an emphasis on finding outstanding candidates. We will seek continued feedback about our Program from the External Advisory Committee and Research Education Committee, CTSI Directors and the CTSI Branch Leadership Team. Working in harmony with the CTSI’s Impact and Continuous Quality Improvement team, we will use a highly comprehensive set of metrics to continuously measure the effectiveness of our program and be rapidly responsive to needed improvement. This program will train the next generation of independently funded leaders who will transform the translational research landscape and accelerate discoveries.
