Describing the dynamic translational science landscape through Core Voucher utilization.

Area of Science:

• Translational Science
• Academic Research Infrastructure
• Core Facility Management

Background:

• Core facilities are essential for academic research, providing advanced technologies and expertise.
• The UCLA CTSI established a Core Voucher program to support translational science.
• The program aims to foster interaction between researchers and core facilities, enhancing mutual productivity and relevance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide translational investigators with necessary resources for their projects.
• To establish a dynamic feedback loop between researchers and core facilities.
• To identify and prioritize core services that best support translational research.

Main Methods:

• Implementation across four noncontiguous campuses.
• Development of scalable, open-source, web-accessible software for application administration and review.
• Multicampus administration of investigator submissions and reviews.

Main Results:

• Processed over 1400 applications from over 750 faculty members in five years.
• Received 1926 core requests associated with 1467 proposals.
• Top 10 cores accounted for 50% of requests; top half accounted for 90%.

Conclusions:

• Investigator demand data offers insights into core service priorities.
• Understanding demand helps optimize core facility support for translational research.
• The program enhances the relevance and productivity of core services and researchers.