The DE-CTR ACCEL Program Story
In October of 2013, the University of Delaware along with partners Delaware State University, ChristianaCare, Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware, and the Medical University of South Carolina received $25 million to support the growth of clinical and translational research (CTR) over the next five years.
The purpose of the combined NIH and state of Delaware funding is to build research capacities in states which historically have had low levels of NIH funding by supporting basic, clinical, and translational research through mentoring, education and faculty development, and infrastructure improvements.
The overarching goal for the continuation of the ACCEL CTR Program is to create a unified Delaware Clinical and Translational Research Community (inclusive of investigators and community members) that breaks down existing barriers, capitalizes on the unique strengths of its partners to establish infrastructure and accelerates the creation of equitable solutions that improve the health of all Delawareans and all Americans.
The specific aims for our ACCEL CTR Program are to:
- Create opportunities, infrastructure and a scientific culture that enhance the ability of outstanding investigators to conduct exciting clinical and translational research that equitably impacts the healthcare needs of our diverse community.
- Recruit, train and develop clinicians and scientists who will establish highly significant, innovative and competitive C&T research programs that consider the needs of all members of our community.
- Expand and enhance model community engagement outreach research programs that work with the State and other stakeholders to promote health & wellness to a diverse population of Delawareans.
What does ACCEL provide?
The ACCEL program provides resources, networking opportunities, pilot funding, research design and bio-statistical support, mentoring assistance, and community engagement opportunities to help develop, implement, and expand clinical and translational research.
Ultimately ACCEL serves to promote the innovation, acceleration, and translation of research that will improve health outcomes, enhance future funding success, accelerate health care quality, actively engage community members, and advance research careers.
Who should be involved?
- New or early stage researchers who want to accelerate their career
- Senior researchers who want to participate in new collaborations and mentor young colleagues
- Clinicians who want to be part of research efforts in Delaware, or learn new skills
- Community leaders and investigators who want to advance research capabilities relating to community engagement and outreach.
- People who are interested in improving the health of themselves and their neighbors, and the effectiveness of health care in general
Being a part of ACCEL means...
- Receiving mentoring advice from proven researchers with successful track records
- Learning from and participating with community groups and members to address key health issues they face
- Participating in important clinical and translational studies that impact you, your friends, your family, and your community
- Developing research collaboration and expanding your network of colleagues
- Gaining skills and knowledge via the ACCEL mentoring, education, and development program
- Enhancing pilot funding opportunities