Translational research is the process of deriving health outcomes from basic science findings. The Penn State CTSI utilizes a model of Translational Research Clusters for research training – multidisciplinary teams whose research interests are focused around a common theme and whose members’ activities can range from basic science to the implementation and/or evaluation of clinical interventions. These TRCs provide an ideal training environment for students and graduate trainees.
Each TRC has a problem-based research focus and aims to generate outcomes (knowledge, analyses, or interventions) that will ultimately improve public health and/or medical practice. A TRC may include clinical, basic and translational scientists, trainees (junior faculty, postdoctoral fellows, residents, and graduate/undergraduate students), research assistants and clinical coordinators.
The most important feature of a TRC is a commitment to clinical and translational research within a discrete area of interest; however, there is no expectation that all stages from lab to health outcome will be addressed within an individual TRC.
The Penn State CTSI will incubate and coordinate the growth of TRCs, provide resources to facilitate research and research training, and link TRCs with potential collaborators and contributors within and outside Penn State.
Erika Rauff (TL1)
