Abstract
Implementation science is the domain of scholarship that studies methods to facilitate the spread and adoption
of evidence-based practices into real-world settings. The field has seen tremendous growth in the last decade.
Yet, a critical gap impeding further growth is the lack of rigorous training opportunities for young investigators.
Hence the objective of this proposed program is to launch the first T32 program dedicated to implementation
science training to improve heart, lung, blood, and sleep (HLBS) health promotion and clinical practice. We
seek applications from MDs, PhDs, and predoctoral candidates, from a wide range of clinical and scientific
disciplines, and diverse personal backgrounds. The proposed program will take full advantage of the stellar
resources of two new centers at Yale: the Yale Center for Implementation Science (YCIS), based at the School
of Medicine, and the Center for Methods in Implementation and Prevention Science (CMIPS), based at the
School of Public Health. The program’s aims are to: [1] Develop scientists with the knowledge, skills, and
ability to become independent investigators who will continue to expand the field; [2] build a cadre of
investigators/leaders who collaborate with stakeholders, including patients, caregivers, and public health
professionals, from inception through dissemination of research results, with the goal of promoting the uptake
of findings in practice and policy. [3] Enhance the diversity of the implementation science workforce. This
proposal has 4 distinguishing characteristics: (1) Integration with an NHLBI-supported K12 program that serves
as the training core of YCIS; (2) Mentors and resources representing an extraordinary breadth of disciplines
from a wide array of schools at Yale, including Medicine, Public Health, Nursing, and Management, with
expertise in implementation science, organizational behavior, study design, and (HLBS) health promotion and
medical care; (3) Intense engagement with the broader New Haven community, including the Department of
Health, federally qualified health centers, and local nonprofit groups, and (4) A novel use of social network
modeling to assess the professional development and progress of T32 trainees. Our initial cohort of K12
scholars have secured NIH, foundation, and industry grants, and averaged 4 papers/year each, attesting to the
rigor of our training. Didactic components leverage coursework developed by YCIS and CMIPS, and additional
Yale programs that have trained generations of scientists in clinical investigation and public health research
methods. A research practicum will offer close mentorship from national and international experts in HLBS
medicine. Eligible trainees will receive a PhD or Masters in Health Science degree, depending on professional
needs. Training duration will be 2-3 years, based on needs. We will have 3-7 slots per year. Successful
candidates must show evidence of a strong commitment to implementation science, academic excellence in
fields of previous academic training, and a commitment to work with stakeholders as partners. Trainee
progress will be monitored and evaluated by the Program Directors, mentors, and an Advisory Committee.