Training a Nonclinician to Become a Leader in Transdisciplinary Clinical Research: Clinical Observerships

As institutions and funders expand their efforts toward multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and even transdisciplinary research, there is a substantial need for scientists who can lead such efforts. The traditional image of a leader of transdisciplinary clinical research is a quantitatively savvy clinician conducting research at some point along the continuum from the "bench to the bedside." However, this is not the only alternative. Nonclinician scientists can also provide effective leadership in multidisciplinary clinical research teams. To foster the development of such nonclinician-leaders, we suggest the completion of a comprehensive clinical observership as an appropriate and valuable training activity. The clinical setting can foster unique insight, providing invaluable training for leadership in translational research. Observing both providers and patients immerses nonclinician scientists in the health care experience, providing them with direct exposure to clinicians, patients, and patients' families, and thereby motivating patient-centered research.