Advancing the discipline of translational science: professional identity development for early-stage investigators - the association for clinical and translational science (acts) serves as the…

Advancing the discipline of translational science: professional identity development for early-stage investigators - the association for clinical and translational science (acts) serves as the principal professional organization for the nation's ~60 clinical and translational science award (ctsa) hubs. Each year, acts convenes over 1,200 faculty, trainees, and community stakeholders at its flagship translational science (TS) meeting, a premier forum for advancing the discipline of translational science. A central mission of acts is to elevate translational science as a rigorous, standalone discipline- a goal that aligns closely with the priorities of the national center for advancing translational sciences (ncats), which has committed to sponsoring this application. As the field of translational science continues to evolve, a critical barrier to workforce development has emerged: the lack of professional identity development (PID) among early-stage investigators (esis). Evaluation data reveal that many esis gradually disengage from the field, often seeking mentorship and support within more traditionally defined disciplines. To address this GAP, this R13/U13 application proposes a strategic initiative to embed PID into the professional development infrastructure of the TS meeting, thereby strengthening the translational science workforce. Our overarching goal is to cultivate a resilient, interdisciplinary cadre of translational scientists equipped to lead, collaborate, and innovate across boundaries. We propose two specific aims: aim 1: establish a professional development pathway for esis and mid-career investigators that addresses discipline-agnostic challenges and strengthens PID. We will design and implement a competency-aligned professional development pathway tailored to esis and mid-career investigators. This pathway will be open to all TS2026 attendees and will feature expert-led, skill- building workshops that address discipline-agnostic challenges. Each session will integrate PID principles through reflective exercises, peer-to-peer dialogue, and activities that align personal values with the ethos of translational science. Networking activities will include PID principles, providing opportunities for esis to explore their evolving roles, share experiences, and build supportive interdisciplinary partnerships spanning translational stages that reinforce a shared sense of purpose and belonging within the scientific community. Aim 2: conduct a comprehensive, mixed-methods evaluation to assess impact and strengthen PID in CTS. We will launch a multi-year, mixed-methods evaluation framework to assess the impact of PID programming and inform continuous improvement. In year 1 (the R13), we will conduct a qualitative study to define core PID characteristics and contextual factors unique to translational science. This evidence base will guide future programming and contribute to the broader understanding of PID in interdisciplinary research environments. By embedding PID into the professional development architecture of the TS meeting, acts will address a pressing national need: cultivating a robust, identity-driven translational science workforce capable of accelerating innovation and improving human health.