New Publication Highlights Role of Scientist Narratives in Translational Research Training
A new article published in the Journal of Clinical and Translational Science explores how narrative format can be used to strengthen education and training in translational science. Titled “Narratives of Discovery as a Catalyst for Translational Science Education and Training,” the article highlights how personal stories from scientists can shed light on the creative and human aspects of research that are not always covered in traditional training programs.
The article was co-authored by Columbia University Irving Medical Center investigators, including Leah G. Pope, PhD (Irving Institute for Clinical and Translational Research; Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons; and the New York State Psychiatric Institute); Daichi Shimbo, MD (Irving Institute and Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons); Harold A. Pincus, MD (Irving Institute; Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons; and the New York State Psychiatric Institute); Muredach P. Reilly, MBBCh, MSCE (Irving Institute and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine); and Rita Charon, MD, PhD (Department of Medical Humanities and Ethics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons).
The publication describes a pilot project in which nine in-depth interviews were conducted with researchers supported by the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA) Program. The authors suggest that these narratives can help trainees gain insight into the goals, challenges, and varied paths that shape careers in translational science.