Table 1.

Specific roles the Translational Medical Professional could play in shifting the focus of the translational pathway from “bench to bedside” to “bench to society” by (1) widening participation to research and (2) improving collaboration.

Widening participation
Encourage involvement in research activities in non-traditional research centers (NTRCs) and other partners including: social care institutions: e.g., hospices, rehabilitation centers, schools, and care homes primary care (general practitioner services) secondary care centers (specialist or teaching hospitals) industry partners universities patient groups ethics research committees Recruit and include patients outside of NTRCs in clinical trials and monitoring of medical devices Encourage the relocation of research and development offices and clinical research units into NTRCs, or take up roles in such centers or work independently but collaboratively with existing centers Take an organizational role in sharing of research facilities such as laboratory facilities Support and encourage the wider inclusion of patient advocates on ethical approval boards and grant approval committees Encourage new grants and apply for existing grants or other benefits, such as awards of a recognition of excellence to research centers that widen participation in TM could be a focus for TMPs in NTRCs. Participation in, and encourage new educational programmes, pre- and postgraduate as well as on-going clinical educational opportunities to address challenges facing translational medicine professionals (TMPs).
Improving collaboration
Communication and outreach activities to connect different research partners and participants Organization of collaborative forums and meetings Development and participation in mentorship programmes Setting up and maintenance of shared biobank facilities Organization of the use of specialist research equipment between different centers Mentoring and supporting non-TMP colleagues in realizing the potential personal and wider benefits of TM.