Applying the NIEHS translational research framework (NIEHS-TRF) to map clinical environmental health research trajectories

Abstract

Background:: There is a need for comprehensive planning tools and exemplars for clinical environmental health research programs. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences Translational Research Framework (NIEHS-TRF), as a comprehensive research activity mapping framework, promises to fill this gap in program planning and communication tools.

Objective:: The objective is a proof of concept demonstration to apply the NIEHS-TRF as a research project and career trajectory cartography framework.

Methods:: We utilized case series examples to apply the NIEHS-TRF as a project/career cartography framework. After a tailored research mission statement is clarified, the four step process in the NIEHS-TRF application includes 1) identifying research categories and activities (depicted visually by rings/nodes) that link to research program deliverables, 2) within each category (visual ring), linking specific works and program outcomes to activities (visual nodes), 3) coherently depicting visually as an overall map, and 4) developing recommended improvements for the NIEHS-TRF for research program cartography utility.

Results:: Successful mapping of a research project plan in a training grant application, a summary of an individual trajectory of research, and a community-initiated project was completed with mapping visualizations. The exercise facilitated purposeful planning and communication to describe common translational goals, progress, and targeted need for interdisciplinary collaboration.

Discussion:: Utilizing the NIEHS-TRF as a mapping tool for research program planning enabled unique insights into strengths, gaps, collaboration opportunities, and applications for environmental health nursing. This research project, career, and community-initiated research program trajectory mapping communication tool promises to accelerate impact and advancement through purposeful and clear planning for ongoing research activities along the translational continuum.

Figure 1.

The NIEHS-TRF for Career Cartography Reproduced from Environmental Health Perspectives with permission from the author: Pettibone, K. G., Balshaw, D. M., Dilworth, C., Drew, C. H., Hall, J. E., Heacock, M., … Collman, G. W. (2018). Expanding the Concept of Translational Research: Making a Place for Environmental Health Sciences. Environ Health Perspect, 126(7), 074501. doi:10.1289/ehp3657

Figure 2.

Early Career Project Planning: Increase Environmental Health Literacy Among Under-Represented Populations

Figure 3.

Research Trajectory: Multi-level Measurement and Reduction of Airborne Pollutants with Emergency Effects on Respiratory and Sense Organs Note: VOC=Volatile Organic Compound. CBPR=Community Based Participatory Research.

Figure 4.

Community Initiated Project Planning: Coal Ash Exposures and Failed Sewage Treatment System