The KL2 Clinical and Translational Science (CATS) Scholars Program is intended to accelerate the career progression of scientists who have demonstrated a commitment to clinical and/or translational research.

Participating in the KL2 program has been a game changer in my research career and provided me with a solid foundation to become a successful independent health disparities researcher.  Prior to the KL2 program, my research was limited to retrospective reviews and survey research. The protected time allowed me to conduct my first prospective observational pilot study. Since completion of the program, I have received continuous grant funding.

Heather Prendergast, MD, MS, MPH, FACEP  |  Professor of Emergency Medicine, Co-Asst. Dean of Clinical Affairs, Assoc. Head of Academic Affairs.

  • 75 % release time for research and career development

  • $ 25,000 annually to support scholarly activities

  • $ 2,500 each year for research-related travel

  • Monthly career development workshops and activities

  • Mentor support from senior faculty

  • Access to subsidized CCTS service support

Program Overview Heading link

These two year awards provide a vigorous mentoring and career development program for clinical and translational scholars in disciplines and professions such as medicine, dentistry, engineering, social work, nursing, and pharmacy.

Ideal candidates are junior faculty who will have completed the majority of their formal research training and now require protected time to develop a specific research project that will lead to external funding.

Program Benefits Heading link

  • 75% release time

    for research and career development, which will be funded by the CATS Program up to $100,000*

  • $25,000 annually

    to support scholarly activities as well as $2,500/year for research related travel

  • Career planning

    Individual, formalized annual review of progress

  • Career development

    Monthly workshops and activities

  • Peer review

    of grants and external presentations

  • Mentoring

    from senior faculty

  • Subsidized CCTS services

    Access requires submission of an application/proposal for approval

  • Additional funds

    for external enrichment activities to support career development goals

  • *

    Home unit must commit to release time in writing at the time of application

Program Leadership Heading link