What communication challenges do you need to overcome in translational research?

Translational research is the process of applying scientific discoveries to real-world problems, such as developing new therapies, devices, or policies. It involves collaboration across multiple disciplines, sectors, and stakeholders, which can pose significant communication challenges. In this article, you will learn about some of the common communication barriers in translational research and how to overcome them.

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1 Understand your audience

One of the first steps to effective communication in translational research is to identify and understand your audience. Who are you trying to reach with your message? What are their needs, interests, and expectations? How do they prefer to receive and process information? By answering these questions, you can tailor your communication style, content, and format to suit your audience and achieve your goals. For example, if you are communicating with a potential funder, you might want to emphasize the impact and value of your research, use clear and concise language, and provide evidence and examples. If you are communicating with a patient group, you might want to use more empathetic and engaging language, avoid jargon and technical terms, and invite feedback and questions.

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Hui-Qi Qu

Principal Scientist at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
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Understanding your audience is a critical aspect of translational research, just as it is in giving a lecture. The effectiveness of your research communication depends on tailoring your message to the specific needs, interests, and knowledge levels of your audience. In translational research, which aims to bridge the gap between scientific discoveries and practical applications, this becomes even more essential because you are not only conveying information but also hoping to inspire action and change.

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2 Bridge the gaps

Another challenge in translational research is to bridge the gaps between different disciplines, sectors, and stakeholders. These gaps can be caused by a variety of factors such as different backgrounds, perspectives, terminologies, cultures, and values. To overcome these barriers, it is important to establish common ground, respect diversity, and foster trust and collaboration. To do this, you should use plain language that everyone can understand and explain any technical terms or concepts. Additionally, provide context and relevance for your message so that your audience can understand why the research matters and what benefits or implications it has for them and society. It is also beneficial to use multiple modes of communication such as verbal, visual, and written with examples, stories, analogies, graphs, charts, and images to make your points more memorable. Finally, don’t forget to seek feedback from your audience by asking questions, listening actively, acknowledging different views, and addressing any concerns or misunderstandings. Showing that you value their contributions and perspectives will help build trust.

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3 Adapt to change

Translational research is a dynamic and complex process that involves many uncertainties, risks, and opportunities. To succeed, you need to be flexible and responsive to the changing needs, expectations, and feedback of your audience and the environment. Additionally, you should be proactive and prepared to communicate any changes, challenges, or achievements in your research. To do this, you should monitor and evaluate your communication activities with various methods and tools. You should also communicate regularly and consistently with your audience to keep them informed of your progress. Anticipate and manage any potential issues or crises by identifying risks or threats that might affect your research or communication. In this way, you can bridge the gaps between translational research and communication challenges in order to achieve successful outcomes.

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4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What communication challenges do you need to overcome in translational research?

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1 Understand your audience

2 Bridge the gaps

3 Adapt to change

4 Here’s what else to consider

Research Management

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