Graduation Date

Summer 8-15-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Programs

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Research

First Advisor

Brandon Grimm

Second Advisor

David Palm

Third Advisor

Regina Idoate

Fourth Advisor

Bruce Gordon

Abstract

The competencies identified in the development of the “Fundamental Characteristics of the Translational Scientist” may not consider and fully integrate the concepts of knowledge integration and engagement, key components of the translational science spectrum. This gap may be widening and deepening the “valley of death” and exacerbating ongoing challenges in the field of translational science. This dissertation explored the association of knowledge integration, stakeholder engagement, and community engagement principles compared with translational science competencies.

Utilizing content review and a non-experimental, correlation study design, data were collected through a quantitative survey from adult research subjects all self-identified as a research investigator (n=93) at a Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) associated, high-research activity institution (e.g., R1).

Key findings from the content review suggest a gap between competencies and principles of knowledge integration and engagement. In addition, key findings indicate a statistically significant, positive correlation between the two variables of importance and perceived skill of the research investigator among the competencies associated with the fundamental characteristics of a translational scientist, rs(93) = .298, p < .003. All competencies were perceived to be important by research investigators; however, the importance of the competency versus the perceived skill of the research investigator allows us to have a deeper understanding of the implications of this research.

These results have practical implications for research institutions seeking to further enhance research/community partnerships, support for research investigators and to better identify training programs that focus on key components of the translational science spectrum. Further research should be completed to refine the research methods, expand the sample, and explore community needs versus research organizational needs and the systems by which they operate. Review of translational research training programs and other community engagement efforts at CTSAs and translational research hubs should be reviewed to assess the coverage of competencies versus principles. Finally, additional research should focus on whether skills can be further refined to be more relevant to the individual stages and to provide a better pathway for community engagement across all areas of the translational spectrum from basic to clinical to public health stages.

Comments

2025 Copyright, the authors

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Available for download on Monday, July 20, 2026

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