In response to increasing demand from European researchers to focus on translational research, ASH and the European Hematology Association (EHA) have collaborated to create the Translational Research Training in Hematology (TRTH) program. The program will provide promising translational investigators an opportunity to undertake intensive training in the pathogenesis, diagnostics, and experimental treatment of hematologic disorders from some of the most recognized names in the field.

Modeled after ASH’s successful Clinical Research Training Institute, the inaugural TRTH will bring 20 early-stage scientists to southern Europe on March 20-26, 2010. This rigorous one-week training course will allow participants to concentrate on projects directly focused on the use of human samples or involving in vitro and/or animal studies close to translation to studies in human subjects. Leaders in the areas of biostatistics and biomarkers, ethics, clinical studies, and genetic and molecular biology will foster personalized mentoring.

Didactic sessions will help researchers prepare to conduct hypothesis-driven research, design phase I and II clinical trials, use animal models for translational research, and employ diagnostics and biomarkers in translational research. Practical sessions will focus on career development, featuring career retrospectives from hematology pioneers in addition to expert opinions regarding opportunities in translational research and panel discussions about grant preparation and funding sources. After the initial one-week course, participants will meet at the EHA annual congress and the ASH annual meeting to review the progress of their projects.

Medical trainees, biomedical trainees, and pharmaceutical doctorate trainees generally within 12 years of MD graduation or with less than eight years of post-doctoral experience are encouraged to apply; trainees must be an EHA or ASH member.

TRTH draws on the strength of the partnership between EHA and ASH. Through this cross-cultural collaboration of both general hematologic expertise and specific methodology, participants will receive the tools, mentoring, and peer network to help position them as global leaders in the field of translational research. 

Applicants should submit a comprehensive translational research project relevant to hematology. The research will be evaluated on the importance of the hypothesis and specific aims, originality, the clarity and feasibility of the experimental plan, and available funding for the project. Applicants should also submit their curriculum vitae, letter of support from their mentor, and a career-development plan. Proficiency in English is required.

Applications will be available on the ASH and EHA Web sites starting June 15, 2009. Applications and all relevant materials must be received by September 15, 2009. A study section will review the applications, and winners will be notified by December 1, 2009.