CTSI offering predoctoral training awards in translational research

The Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute (CTSI) is seeking applicants for special predoctoral training awards in translational research.

In biomedical terminology, translational research refers to what is popularly termed "bench to bedside," the process by which research in the lab "translates" into patient treatment. Translation may involve applying discoveries made during research (in the lab, through animal studies, etc.) to the development of clinical trials and studies in humans, carrying out research aimed at enhancing the adoption of best practices, or both.

These two types of translational research are usually described as consisting of either T1 research (basic biomedical research, e.g., study disease at a molecular or cellular level, as it progresses to the development of new treatment options at the clinical level) or T2 research (enhancing access to and the adoption of evidence-based strategies in clinical and community practice, institutionalizing programs, products, and services to improve health). These awards are aimed at predoctoral students whose research is at any point along this spectrum.

Funding is available for predoctoral graduate students. Criteria for application include:

* Candidates must have completed at least one year of a predoctoral training program but cannot have completed more than their third year (i.e., applicants must be in the second or third year of their predoctoral program when they apply).

* Co-mentorship by faculty investigators from at least two different disciplines (preferably a clinician and a non-clinician scientist).

* Research that is translational in nature and takes advantage of the synergism that comes from working at this basic/clinical interface or clinical/community interface.

* Mentorship plans that offer brief experiential learning opportunities, for example experiences with an industry partner, government agency, community organization, or health research related organization.

* U.S. citizen or permanent resident status.

Funding is for two years (with the second year of funding contingent upon satisfactory progress). Benefits include a stipend as well as health insurance and partial coverage of tuition and fees.

Trainees will be required to participate in a translational science course, attend a National Clinical and Translational Science Awards meeting, and present their work at several Indiana CTSI predoctoral gatherings during the academic year.

Completed applications must be submitted by Dec. 14, and awards will start July 1. Interested candidates must be prescreened for eligibility by submitting a copy of their CV by Dec. 7 to Colleen Gabauer at ictsi@purdue.edu or by calling 765-496-1016.