Translational research symposium THURSDAY, MAR. 7, 2024 | HMEB 125 & 135

symposium overview

At the symposium, participants from all levels of academia will have the opportunity to present their research findings through presentations and posters, aligning with the NCATS principles that emphasize the swift and efficient translation of scientific discoveries into practical applications that benefit society.

Our symposium embodies the spirit of translational research, where cutting-edge discoveries are translated into practical applications that can positively impact healthcare and society. It’s a day dedicated to celebrating innovation, fostering collaboration, and inspiring the next generation of translational researchers, all within the framework of NCATS principles.

Whether you’re a seasoned faculty member or a budding student researcher, the UF CTSI Translational Research Symposium offers a unique chance to engage with your peers, gain insights into the latest research trends, and contribute to the vibrant culture of translational research excellence, firmly grounded in the principles set forth by NCATS. Save the date and join us in advancing the frontiers of translational science.

Areas of interest

This year’s symposium is a combination of the previous CTSI Research Day and LHS Research Day to celebrate all disciplines of clinical and translational research. Areas of special interest include…

Keynote Speaker

Meet our keynote speaker

Duane Mitchell, MD, PhD

Phyllis Kottler Friedman Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery, UF Assistant Vice President for Research, Associate Dean for Clinical and Translational Sciences at the UF College of Medicine, and the Director of the UF Clinical Translational Science Institute (CTSI)

Duane A. Mitchell, M.D., Ph.D. is the Phyllis Kottler Friedman Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery. He serves as UF Assistant Vice President for Research, Associate Dean for Clinical and Translational Sciences at the UF College of Medicine, and Director of the UF Clinical Translational Science Institute (CTSI).  Dr. Mitchell also serves as the Co-Director of the Preston A. Wells, Jr. Center for Brain Tumor Therapy at UF Health. He graduated from the Medical Scientist Training Program (MD/PhD) at Duke University Medical Center and completed post-graduate training in pathology and neuro-oncology research prior to joining the faculty at Duke in 2005 as an Assistant Professor. During his tenure at Duke, Dr. Mitchell served as the Director of Preclinical Research at the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center and as the Associate Director of the Duke Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Program. In 2013, Dr. Mitchell was recruited to the University of Florida and leads a comprehensive neuro-oncology program focused on translational brain tumor research within the Preston A. Wells, Jr. Center for Brain Tumor Therapy.

In collaboration with the center’s founder and Co-Director, Dr. William A. Friedman, the Wells Brain Tumor Center has grown to one of the largest brain tumor centers in the United States, with over 100 full-time employees dedicated to brain tumor research and clinical care and drawing patients from over 35 states and internationally for novel brain tumor treatments.  Dr. Mitchell is a leading expert in the development of innovative immunotherapy treatments for adults and children with malignant brain tumors. He has pioneered many novel brain tumor immunotherapies that have been translated into first-in-human clinical trials and multi-center phase 2 studies. Dr. Mitchell has received numerous awards and recognition for his work, including a 2016 Top 10 Clinical Research Achievement Award from the Clinical Research Forum in Washington, D.C., induction into the American Society for Clinical Investigation in 2019, and induction into the Academy of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics of Florida in 2020. Dr. Mitchell has received over $40 million in research awards as principal investigator and has been continuously funded by the NIH for his cancer research since 2009. His research has been supported by the NIH, Department of Defense, and numerous private foundations, and he is inventor on over 25 patents for novel cancer therapeutics. Dr. Mitchell has served on several national and international advisory boards for industry, academia, and government agencies, including the NCI Board of Scientific Counselors, Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) Scientific Review Board, and as gubernatorial appointee and Chair of the Scientific Advisory Board for the Florida Center for Brain Tumor Research (FCBTR).

Abstract submission

Abstract Submission now closed

Interested in submitting an abstract and showcasing your research?

The following information will be required:
– Presenter’s/co-presenter(s)’s name(s) and email(s)
– Presenter’s college and department
– Faculty Mentor’s name, college, and department (if applicable)
– Project title
– Authors
– Abstract (250 word maximum)
– Presentation type
– Translational science principle(s) that fits the project
Poster Requirements
– Poster Boards are 4′ tall and 5′ wide.
– Posters can be any size or orientation to fit the poster board.

Translational science principles

This year’s symposium is dedicated to exploring the profound translational science principles outlined by the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS). The NCATS Translational Science Principles, guided by NCATS’ mission to translate biomedical research discoveries into practical health solutions, serve as a cornerstone in the field of translational science. These principles, which encompass scientific, operational, financial and administrative innovations, streamline the research process, making it faster, more efficient and impactful. For more information visit the NIH NCATS website.

Emphasize Creativity and Innovation

Prioritize Initiatives That Address Unmet Needs

Produce Generalizable Solutions for Common and Persistent Challenges

Leverage Cross-Disciplinary Team Science

Enhance the Efficiency and Speed of Translational Research

Use Bold and Rigorous Research Approaches

Prioritize Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA)

Utilize Boundary-Crossing Partnerships