Overcoming Translational Research Challenges

Hear from Australian researchers and clinicians on navigating challenges and strategies for successful translational research in neuroscience. Some of the webinar key messages for those facing translational research challenges are:

• The importance of consumer input.
  Associate Professor Cedric Bardy explained, “I’ve worked a lot with foundations that are really good advocates for consumers for a specific disease. That’s been fantastic. … If you can work with them as a researcher, it makes things easier.”
• Approaching clinicians
  Dr Sarah Hellewell advised some basic steps to take: don’t be shy to approach clinicians either via email or in person if the opportunity arises; define your expectations clearly in terms of time, investment and support needed; have several back-up plans and pathways for your study (for e.g., can you scale the study down to get pilot data and apply for more funding?); and make the clinicians life as easy as possible by initiating and organising assessments and meetings.

• Collaborating with clients
  Professor Clement Loy encourages early-to-mid-career researchers to open themselves to opportunities. For example, by attending conferences outside of your research field you can not only learn about other research work but also create connections and relationships with others that could lead to future collaboration.
• Career Paths
  Professor Loy’s simple yet sound advice is not to be afraid of detours in your career. Use whatever roles and projects that come your way to add to your expertise, broaden your CV and open up more opportunities.Watch the webinar here