Professional Development • IDPP
Building the Next Generation of Research Leaders: Launching the IDPP
The Alliance for Clinical and Translational Research recently launched the Investigator Development Pipeline Program (IDPP), a comprehensive initiative led by the Alliance’s Professional Development Core to support the career advancement of faculty members and researchers at every stage of their professional journey. Through the IDPP, participants including faculty with academic rank or clinical fellows, gain access to targeted training, mentorship, and resources designed to foster research independence and long-term career success.
The program organizes investigators into developmental stages based on their research leadership experience and funding history:
- Stage 1: Investigators who have never served as Principal Investigator (PI) on an NIH-funded or institutionally funded research project.
- Stage 2: PIs of their first institutionally/externally funded project, or non-NIH research projects.
- Stage 3: PIs of NIH research grants (e.g., R00, R03, R16, R21), NIH Career Development Awards (e.g., K). or equivalent.
- Independent Investigator: PIs of NIH R01 award or equivalent.
IDPP participants benefit from a wide range of professional development opportunities, including the Continuum Learning Series, Convergence Mentorship Network, Mentor Training Certification, Insight Podcast, K/R Ambassador Cohorts, Mock Study Reviews, and a structured Mentoring Program.
IDPP initiatives were featured in a scientific poster presented at the NISBRE 2026 Conference. The two photos below highlight the poster presentation and conference participation.
Recent IDPP Continuum Learning Series sessions can be accessed here:
View IDPP Continuum Learning Series
- SciENcv: Navigating NIH Common Forms for the Biographical Sketch (February 2026)
- IDPP: Launch Informational Webinar (May 2026)
- Empower your Grant Writing: Know Your NIH K and R Grants (May 2026)
Investigators interested in receiving updates on career development training, research support, and mentoring opportunities are encouraged to join the IDPP listserv:
Stay tuned for the upcoming call for applications to the K/R Ambassador Cohorts!
