81 The Social Responsibility of Translational Science

Abstract

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Recent NCATS funding announcements emphasize pursuing domain-agnostic translational science projects that seek to transform the system of science. We aimed to articulate the social responsibility of translational science, defined as prioritizing improved health outcomes and decreased disparities. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: We focused on the framing of social responsibilities of translational science and distinctions between (a) domain-agnostic translational science that aims to transform the system of science and (b) translational research that takes place within a specific therapeutic area. We reviewed CTSA funding calls, translational research ethics papers, and statements by leaders in the field of translational science. We integrated the social responsibilities of improving health outcomes and decreasing disparities with the values of translational science, which prioritize the relevance, usability, and sustainability of translational interventions. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: We drew on our review of the literature and case studies to offer guidance aimed at helping to ensure that differently positioned actors and entities within the translational ecology can advance the values of translational science while also fulfilling the social responsibilities of translational science. We specify how (a) Funders and policymaking institutions, (b) Organizations such as research universities and CTSA institutes, (c) Translational health science teams working on innovative translational science projects, and (d) Individual translational scientists can all contribute to ensuring that translational science fulfills its ethical obligations and social responsibilities. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: The social responsibility of translational science can be fulfilled by centering its efforts to develop useful, sustainable, and relevant innovations. These criteria clarify how social responsibilities manifest in practice and can help funders shape and guide the next era of translational discovery.