CTSA Predoctoral T32 at the University of Florida: CTS Team Training

University Of Florida, Gainesville FL

Investigators

Abstract

We have developed and implemented a unique clinical and translational research “CTS Team” training program for pairs of PhD and/or combined degree (e.g., MD-PhD) trainees who are pursuing their PhD studies in different disciplines, in different colleges, and with different mentors. Prospective CTS Teams propose cross-disciplinary collaborative translational research projects that become embedded into their individual dissertation research as “team-specific aims.” CTS Team training provides authentic cross-disciplinary collaborative research experiences combining team science and clinical and translational research training. We will build on the unique strengths of the CTS Team training model by adding emphasis on translational science, by pursuing the following five objectives. Scientific and operational principles underlying each step of the translational process will be incorporated into the didactic curriculum and mentored research experiences of cross-disciplinary teams of T32 predoctoral trainees. We will use a novel combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, including Translational Science Competency-Based Assessment (TS CBA), based on a conceptual model of training progression and career success. We will fully develop, pilot-test, and implement TS CBA, which is based on seven “fundamental characteristics of a translational scientist”. We will recruit and retain a critical mass of highly qualified T32 trainees who are diverse with respect to scientific disciplines and translational research interests, and value the highest ethical standards in conducting translational team research. We will continue to emphasize training across all phases of translation, i.e., preclinical, clinical, implementation, and population-level research. We will explore the dynamics of team mentoring to optimize CTS Team training. Just as the process of cross-disciplinary collaboration poses challenges for researchers, co-mentoring across disciplines presents challenges. Mentor and mentee training materials will be developed, pilot-tested, and optimized to support development of key mentoring competencies. Finally, we will develop facilitation resources for all elements of the CTS Team training model and disseminate via national communities of practice for CTS, mentoring, and the science of team science. With a combination of NIH (six positions) and institutional funds, this predoctoral T32 program will support up to three new CTS Teams per year, for two years each (up to 12 trainees per year). Predoctoral PhD and combined degree students pursuing health-related research in different colleges will be eligible to apply and compete for funding as CTS Teams. The additional focus on translational science principles and implementation of translational science competency-based assessment will help develop the next generation of translational science leaders prepared to translate biomedical research discoveries into innovative health care.