UCSF-Proctor Clinician Vision Scholars K12 Program

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT The UCSF-Proctor Clinician Vision Scholars K12 Program has a proven track record of mentoring and training talented and diverse faculty Scholars in high-quality, reproducible scientific research and developing these Scholars’ academic careers in ophthalmology and vision sciences. Leveraging a collaborative partnership between the UCSF Department of Ophthalmology and the F.I. Proctor Foundation, the program has successfully trained exceptional and diverse faculty in developing methodological expertise and impactful research programs across the span of scientific disciplines including epidemiology/randomized clinical trials/global health (Track 1), basic and translational discovery science (Track 2), and bioengineering & innovation (Track 3). Given recent scientific advancements, a new track will focus on Data Science, Digital Health, and AI (Track 4). An accomplished group of Mentors with broad expertise and strong records of mentorship and collaboration will provide the Scholars with structured mentorship across these Tracks. As the first cohort of graduates have all successfully transitioned to individual career development or independent awards, new activities in the upcoming cycle will include workshops focused on the transition to independent funding, mock study sections, publishing and peer review, and scientific leadership and laboratory management training. We propose to continue training two Scholars at any given time. Key activities in the training plan include: 1) high-quality mentored research; 2) a customized didactic curriculum including formal methodological training; 3) career development and academic success skills; 4) detailed plan for transition to independence; 5) a new Publishing and Peer Review Program; and 6) training in the responsible conduct of research and methods to enhance reproducibility. An Advisory Committee will work with the program directors to select K12 Scholars, monitor their progress, and identify opportunities for program quality improvement. An External Advisory Board will also provide input on program evaluation and strategic planning. The intended outcomes for Scholars are engagement in rigorous, reproducible research, the development of funded independent ophthalmology and vision science research programs with a sustained impact on the field and a focus on improving human health and alleviating blindness, and the advancement of successful academic careers as leaders and mentors in the field.