Program seeks Council approval for the competitive renewal of the Pediatric Scientist Development Program (PSDP) program which is intended to address the need for basic and translational research training for pediatric subspecialty fellows.
The PSDP was first established in 1987 due to concerns in the field that pediatricians were not appropriately trained in basic science research to compete successfully for NIH grants. These concerns persist and the need for this program remains relevant in today’s highly competitive research environment.
The PSDP recruits subspecialty fellows from 156 academic departments of pediatrics in US. The program is designed to enhance their research skills and to provide a bridge between formal research training and the receipt of independent grants. Since its inception, this program has maintained its relevance and productivity. As of June 2019, 92% of the 211 PSDP graduates work in academic pediatrics, and many lead their divisions, departments, and institutes. Collectively, PSDP alumni have secured $586 million in NIH awards as principal or co-principal investigators, which represents a >14-fold return on the NICHD K12 investment. Moreover, as of 2019, 52% of PSDP graduates have been NIH-funded principal investigators with 37% obtaining K awards, and 52% of those converting K to R-level funding, and 39% converting K to R01 grant funding (based on number of completed K awards).The central scope of the work to be performed is to expand the cadre of physician-scientists who are competitive in peer review and who are ready to assume faculty positions in pediatric departments across the country. During the next funding period the PDSP is expected to continue to seek highly qualified candidates and to train them in the latest laboratory techniques and modern methods of biological research.
This program also addresses the NICHD’s ongoing commitment to training and career development.
Program Contact
Karen Winer
Pediatric Growth and Nutrition Branch (PGNB)
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