This project is designed to increase the level of research translation at Montana State University through an integrated program that combines methodical training, tailored programming and support for budding innovators, ongoing support and mentoring for MSU innovators at all levels, and events for students (undergraduate and graduate) with entrepreneurship support and direct research translation support. In addition to this bottoms-up skills development program, we will implement an ART Ambassador program that combines examples of MSU researchers successfully translating their research and which demonstrates the commitment of university leadership to research translation. Together these programs will create a larger and more diverse cohort of graduate students and staff researchers eager and capable of translational research, and a university culture that more strongly values research translation.

A primary focus of the project involves directly supporting and nurturing current MSU innovators as they work to translate their research. The Seed Translational Research Project (STRP) program will advance nascent technologies toward commercialization or other realization, leading to societal impact, further building a strong cultural foundation for the value of research translation among the entire research community. By improving the rate of research findings being translated into practice, this ART program will ultimately improve the long-term health of all communities and enhance the economic competitiveness of the USA.