DE-CTR ACCEL Program

In October of 2013, the University of Delaware along with partners Delaware State University, ChristianaCare, Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware, and the Medical University of South Carolina received $25 million to support the growth of clinical and translational research (CTR) over the next five years. The purpose of the combined NIH and state of Delaware funding is to build research capacities in states which historically have had low levels of NIH funding by supporting basic, clinical, and translational research through mentoring, education and faculty development, and infrastructure improvements. The overarching goal for the continuation of the ACCEL CTR Program is to create a unified Delaware Clinical and Translational Research Community (inclusive of investigators and community members) that breaks down existing barriers, capitalizes on the unique strengths of its partners to establish infrastructure and accelerates the creation of equitable solutions that improve the health of all Delawareans and all Americans. The specific aims for our ACCEL CTR Program are to: 1. Create **opportunities**, **infrastructure and a scientific culture** that enhance the ability of outstanding investigators to conduct exciting clinical and translational research **that equitably impacts the healthcare needs of our diverse community**. 2. **Recruit, train and develop clinicians and scientists** who will establish highly significant, innovative and competitive C&T research programs that consider the needs of **all members of our community**. 3. **Expand and enhance model community engagement outreach research programs** that work with the State and other stakeholders to promote health & wellness to a diverse population of Delawareans.