Navigating the bench to bedside maze: Lessons from CTSA hubs on streamlining research support in academic medical centers.

Abstract

Background: Academic Medical Centers (AMCs) with Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSAs) offer a range of resources to support clinical and translational research and science. However, research professionals often face challenges in navigating these resources effectively.

Objective: Our study sought to examine research navigation services across CTSA hubs to identify successful strategies, common challenges, and best practices for supporting research teams.

Methods: We conducted interviews with representatives from ten CTSA hubs and performed a landscape analysis to explore the types of research navigation services available, the methods of advertising and orienting faculty and staff, and the challenges faced in launching and maintaining these services.

Results: Our analysis identified three primary types of research navigation services offered at CTSA hubs: online resource libraries, personalized research navigation with dedicated staff, and interdisciplinary research "studios" for protocol development. Despite these offerings, challenges such as low awareness, difficulties coordinating across siloed university systems, and limited metrics for evaluating navigation services persist.

Conclusion: Effective research navigation requires a combination of web-based applications and in-person support, backed by institutional commitment to foster engagement and streamline access. Key strategies for successful navigation services include proactive advertising, integration with orientation programs, and cross-departmental collaboration. Our findings offer actionable recommendations for enhancing research navigation at AMCs, ultimately aiming to increase research productivity and collaboration.