By George A. Mashour, M.D., Ph.D., Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Clinical and Translational Science (JCTS)
Recently, an international group of investigators who are part of the Translation Together consortium defined the ideal characteristics of a translational scientist. Recall that translational science is the field of investigation that endeavors to systematically understand each step of the translational process. The seven characteristics of a translational scientist were:
Boundary crosser: breaks down silos to collaborate broadly.
Domain expert: has deep disciplinary expertise in one or more of the translational phases.
Team player: recognizes and engages in team science to understand and advance translation.
Process innovator: seeks to understand and improve processes underlying the transitions from one translational phase to another.
Skilled communicator: can “translate” research effectively to stakeholders across the various domains of translation.
Systems thinker: can analyze and navigate the internal and external dynamics that impact the translational process.
Rigorous researcher: adheres to high standards of rigor, reproducibility, and transparency.
These characteristics might resonate with you, as a translational scientist. JCTS exists to advance translational science and to help inform and educate translational scientists around the globe. Our latest issue contains examples of domain expertise, process innovation, rigor in translational science, and more. Collectively, the work published by JCTS reflects all of the characteristics described above and we aspire to play an increasingly essential role in the future of translational scientists.