CTSA K12 Program at Baylor College of Medicine and University of Houston

Baylor College Of Medicine, Houston TX

Investigators

Abstract

The K12 Companion Application for our CSTA, entitled “Consortium for Translational and Precision Health (CTPH)”, seeks to promote the career development of early-career faculty members to become leaders in translational science, with an emphasis on precision health. Our K12 program capitalizes on the strengths of two institutions: Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) and the University of Houston (UH). BCM is a top-tier academic health sciences center with a rich history of innovative discovery leading to human applications in genetics, biotechnology, medical research and medicine. UH is a Tier-1, comprehensive, and vibrant research university with prestigious programs in pharmacy, computer science, business, mathematics, behavioral science, population health, and biomedical engineering. Our program will promote synergy among the partner institutions to create an integrated and thriving environment for developing the next generation of experts in translational science. Their geographic proximity in Houston facilitates the partnership between BCM and UH, only 4 miles apart, in one the nation’s fastest growing cities. Our K12 will support physician-scientist and PhD scholars for a two-year training program with an optional third year, with 75% protected time devoted to mentored research and career development activities. We will recruit scholars from multiple disciplines and provide a cross-disciplinary, team-based training program that integrates competencies in translational science. Our scholars will receive training in precision health and relevant disciplines, including digital health promotion, artificial intelligence and machine learning, determinants of health, implementation science, bioinformatics, multiomics, leadership, and related concepts. Scholars will enroll in a unique curriculum consisting of 1) a common core team-based curriculum, 2) an individualized curriculum, and 3) experiential activities. Our K12 program provides an ideal opportunity to enhance the pool of highly qualified, multidisciplinary faculty who contribute to the health of Greater Houston communities through innovative translational science.