191 Paying it forward: Establishing a faculty networking community through TRANSFORM Evolution

Abstract

Objectives/Goals: Recognizing a critical need for sustained education and community beyond formalized training periods at Columbia University’s NCATS-CTSA, we created the TRANSFORM (TRaining And Nurturing Scholars FOr Research that is Multidisciplinary) Evolution program to preserve the networks cultivated during the KL2 program. Methods/Study Population: We will provide an overview of the genesis, expansion, key components, and programming for the TRANSFORM Evolution program. The program is designed for current and alumni of the KL2 program and late junior faculty that receive our CTSA’s Irving Scholar Award. TRANSFORM Evolution is a faculty and alumni network offering a platform to support the next generation of clinical and translational researchers while fostering a lasting community of collaboration and educational activities throughout a scholar’s career lifespan. Results/Anticipated Results: Salient components include the opportunities for social interaction, such as social/happy hours and member led education/career development sessions pertaining to topics that support thriving in an academic career. The program operates with financial resources and the support of a program manager. Evolution adopts a holistic, long-term approach, focusing on the entire professional lifespan by encouraging the development of enduring opportunities for our alumni. The program is intentionally structured to meet the evolving needs of its participants, through the beginning to more established phases in their professional careers. This continuity underscores the program’s capacity to adapt and remain relevant, informing and supporting sustained career progression and scholarly productivity. Discussion/Significance of Impact: The program has been an instrumental adjuvant in facilitating the transition to each career stage. By cultivating a community rooted in a common foundation – the KL2 and Irving Scholars programs, the program has created a robust support system that is crucial for the career development of clinician-scientists.