This HEPI Policy Note explains the crucial role of translational research in bridging the gap between scientific discovery and real-world application and underscores its potential to enhance interdisciplinary collaboration, foster innovation and commercialisation and translate research into policy, practice and products. While translational research originated in applied medicine, other disciplines can adopt and benefit from its approaches and mindset.
Key findings
Definition and importance: Translational research involves turning basic research knowledge into practical applications to improve human health and well-being or adopting a ‘goal-orientated’ approach from the initial research design stage to solve specific problems. It encourages cross- disciplinary collaboration and can significantly impact societal challenges.
Challenges: The field faces numerous barriers, including scientific, regulatory, financial, infrastructural and cultural obstacles. These challenges require innovative solutions and collective efforts to overcome.
Role of publishers: Publishers can support translational research by making scientific knowledge more accessible, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration and promoting the translation of research findings into actionable insights.
Recommendations
For academia and research institutions:
- Develop a comprehensive framework for planning, delivering and assessing translational research.
- Offer training and mentoring opportunities for researchers and staff.
- Incentivise and reward researchers involved in translational research.
For funders and decision-makers:
- Diversify funding support for translational research, especially in early and intermediate stages.
- Align funding strategies and policies among various types of funders.
- Develop funding programmes that are adaptable to the challenges of translational research.
For institutions:
- Improve structures, facilities, and equipment crucial for research translation.
- Foster stakeholder and end-user participation in the research process.
- Recognise team science contributions in academic evaluations.
For publishers:
- Create new formats to engage researchers with different audiences more easily.
- Develop platforms and networks to facilitate interaction across academia, industry and the public.
- Adopt standards and tools to improve the access, visibility and impact of translational research.