Beginning and Early Stage Translational (BEST) Researchers - Significant deficits exist in the ability to translate findings from the bench to the bedside and to the community. One contributing factor is the shortage of trained professionals engaged in translational research and, especially those who understand the importance translational science is to improving health in rural states. To address this gap and strengthen the translational science workforce, we have developed a summer research experience for undergraduate students who have previously only considered careers as clinicians and have had little exposure to translational science. The University of Iowa, with its broad range of research across the translational spectrum, extensive resources, and distinctive position as the only academic medical center in a predominantly rural state, offers an ideal setting for this training. The goals of our program are to provide 1) enhanced short-term training in translational science, 2) sustained mentoring of future translational scientists, and 3) focused educational sessions related to clinical and translational science. To achieve these goals, the experiential educational opportunity for Beginning and Early Stage Translational (BEST) Researchers will embed students in teams actively conducting translational research. Participants will also engage in structured educational programming to build foundational skills for careers in translational science. This will include seminars and activities on topics such as bioethics, mentorship, wellness and resiliency, communication skills, self-advocacy, application and interview preparation, responsible conduct of research, data management and analysis, and community-engaged research. Incorporated into this training is how rural populations are impacted and role clinicians and translational science in our rural communities. The program incorporates the Stanton-Salazar Social Capital Framework to help students build effective relationships with mentors and institutional resources. Additionally, educational sessions are designed using the backward curriculum design framework to ensure alignment between learning goals and instructional activities. The Evaluation Program within the Institute for Clinical and Translational Science at the University of Iowa will oversee program assessment and continuous quality improvement. We will monitor both short- and long-term scholar outcomes, including skill development, ongoing research engagement, entry into graduate or professional training, and scholarly output such as abstracts and publications. In summary, our program will contribute to the development of a skilled translational science workforce and support broader efforts to improve translational science.
