The ERS Translational Science Initiative

What do we mean by translational science?

Translational science can be defined as the process that integrates fundamental respiratory research with clinical science to achieve impact on the quality of life of patients by disease prevention and (personalised) medicine. It is also about then being able to translate results from clinical practice back to the bench side.

How does it work? 

A cross-assembly Translational Science Initiative Working Group is facilitating the initiative and integrating it into ERS activity. Each ERS assembly has the chance to contribute.

This initiative prioritises resources to better support translational science, as well as provide a much-needed space for those groups to meet and discuss their issues, address any gaps and get new ideas, ultimately to develop new activities and initiatives.

Can ERS members who are not assigned to the Translational Science Initiative Working Group get involved?

Anybody with an interest in translational science who would like to play a role in this initiative can do so. The Translational Science Initiative Working Group welcomes contributions from all members who have an interest in basic science, so that they can play a part in the group’s conversations and to see how clinical scientists can be more involved in ERS basic science and research activity.

ERS members should contact their assembly representative, reach out directly to the project lead Prof. Silke Meiners (ERS Conference and Research Seminars Director) or Prof. Irene Heijink (Head of ERS Assembly 3) or email the ERS Scientific Team to discuss ideas in more detail.

Early career members can contribute by contacting the Early Career Members Committee.