Assessing the Impact of the American Heart Association's Research Portfolio: A Scientific Statement From the American...

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular research
• Research funding evaluation
• Scientific career development

Background:

• The American Heart Association (AHA) Research Committee established performance metrics to evaluate its research portfolio.
• This report assesses the AHA's research program progress from 2008 to 2017.
• Evaluating research impact is crucial for strategic goal achievement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure the performance and outcomes of the AHA's research portfolio.
• To assess the impact of AHA funding on researcher career progress and scientific output.

Main Methods:

• Bibliometric analysis (publication tracking and impact).
• Career development measures (subsequent funding, IP, appointments).
• Post-award surveys of fellowship and grant recipients.

Main Results:

• AHA awardee publications showed high bibliometric impact (Field-Weighted Citation Index 1.5-3.0).
• Publication rates correlated with career stage (0.5-4/year).
• High career success rates: 72% of fellows secured research positions, 45% of grant awardees received promotions, and 83% secured further funding.

Conclusions:

• AHA funding positively impacts researcher careers and scientific output.
• Performance metrics demonstrate the AHA's commitment to high-quality, impactful research.
• Continuous evaluation ensures the AHA research program meets its strategic objectives.