42 Why is the concept of translational science so hard to define and apply?

Objectives/Goals: In CTSA funding calls issued since 2021, the NCATS has differentiated the terms “translational research” and “translational science” which has resulted in confusion between the terms. We explore why this distinction has become challenging for CTSA hubs to implement as a requirement of pilot and UM1 awards and reflect on ways to reduce confusion. Methods/Study Population: We conducted a historically informed critical analysis of data collected from three sources. First, we looked at the scholarly literature on definitions of translational science and translational research since 2006. Second, we analyzed NCATS funding calls from 2006-2024 to identify if and how translational science and translational research were defined and utilized. Lastly, we used our professional experience over the last five years working at a CTSA hub and developing trainings to differentiate translational research and translational science for pilot awards. Results/Anticipated Results: Results suggest three reasons why challenges are commonplace. First, we demonstrate that NCATS has not consistently communicated this distinction, resulting in different interpretations of the concept of translational science. Second, we argue that the systems-level conceptualization of translational science is uncommon in biomedical science training, potentially contributing to gaps in understanding. Third, we show that the academic performance measures, funding, and infrastructures for biomedical research in the United States are not designed to support translational science projects, systems, and careers. Most notably, there are no NIH R01 mechanisms dedicated to translational science that provide standard NIH career pathways. Discussion/Significance of Impact: We propose education and peer-to-peer brainstorming sessions to improve the ability of CTSA investigators to understand the scope of translational science and translational research. However, to truly support long-term work in translational science, NCATS would need to develop a clear career path that includes R01s in translational science.