The Wake Forest Clinical and Translational Science Institute's (CTSI) Pilot Program plays a vital role in advancing research and building collaborations. At its core, the program accelerates innovation by providing researchers with timely funding and support, especially when they need to gather preliminary data, start new collaborations, or turn promising ideas into real projects. Grants like the Ignition Fund help researchers move quickly on smaller-scale ideas that might otherwise stall.
Dr. Christina Hugenschmidt's experience highlights the program's transformative effect. Early in her career, when federal funding was tight, CTSI pilot funding made it possible for her to collect crucial data for her K-award application. Without this support, she couldn't have demonstrated the feasibility of her proposed projects. Over time, CTSI pilots have helped her launch new projects, build institutional resources, and collaborate with other teams.
The program doesn’t just help get projects off the ground; it also makes lasting impacts. Pilot funding allowed Dr. Hugenschmidt to assemble a team led by Dr. Kiran Sai, which developed and introduced a new PET radiotracer at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. This resource remains available for future research.
Support from CTSI has led to long-running collaborations, two funded R01 projects, presentations at major scientific conferences like the American Diabetes Association and the Obesity Association, and publications in respected journals like Obesity and Scientific Reports.
Pilot-supported research has also opened new areas of study, including arts-based interventions for health and aging. These projects have sparked partnerships with organizations like Atrium Health and Wake Forest University and have been featured at NIH workshops. Dr. Hugenschmidt encourages fellow researchers, especially those early in their careers, to seek out CTSI support. She notes that the program offers more than just grants, providing statistical expertise and access to study coordinators, which can make a significant difference when advancing research.
Dr. Hugenschmidt encourages colleagues, especially early-career researchers, to apply for CTSI pilot support. The program offers not only grants, but also statistical support and access to study coordinators, making CTSI a valuable resource for researchers seeking to advance their work.
Consider applying to a CTSI pilot program to advance your research from concept to meaningful impact — Science of Translation and Translational Research request for applications are now open. For more information about CTSI Pilot Program, visit the Pilot Program webpage.