Academy expands research initiatives

Abstract

Renewed efforts to promote research are underway by the Academy of SCI Professionals (ASCIP). ASCIP's newly reorganized Academy Research Committee (ARC) comprises a multidisciplinary team that serves as a resource for Academy members regarding basic research and the bridging of research and clinical practice. One of ARC's commitments is to recognize outstanding student scholarship in the field of clinical practice, translational research, or social policy content related to spinal cord injury (SCI) or disease. This year, for the first time, the annual conference will feature highlighted award presentations to recognize research excellence for one trainee from each of the four ASCIP disciplines – American Paraplegia Society (APS); American Association of SCI Nursing (AASCIN); American Association of Psychologists and Social Workers (PSW), and Therapy Leadership Council (TLC). Each discipline is represented by an ARC Student Recognition Subcommittee. Membership is not a requirement for submission; however, membership is encouraged and there is no fee for student membership in ASCIP. Winners and their topics will be listed in the conference guide; each will give a brief presentation of their work during the plenary session and receive a certificate for their achievements. Trainees in any discipline represented by ASCIP are eligible – students, residents, or fellows who are working in the field of SCI. The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine joins with ARC in encouraging professionals to incorporate clinical research into their practices early in their careers. We hypothesize that this new initiative will grow the field of candidates for the JSCM's publishing award for young investigators. For more than 20 years, the editors have acknowledged young investigators with the Ernest Bors Award for Scientific Development.1 The selection is based on accepted articles that have a primary author who is a student, resident, or fellow. Articles from all disciplines are considered; activity monitors in wheelchair users was the topic of the most recent winning article.2 The Bors award memorializes Ernest Bors, MD, a pioneer in SCI medicine who ‘carried the torch of care and research and opened the way for better care’ of all individuals with SCI.3 Combining caring with research is a strong tradition of ASCIP. We encourage all students in the field to consider this new opportunity to join in this effort that not only promotes research, but also strengthens our collaborations and improves the lives of people with disabilities.