Bradley J. Erickson MD, PhD, Presenter: Stockholder, Evidentia Health, Inc

1) Understand the differences and similarities between translational research and innovation. 2) Recognize the types of environments that are optimal for research and for innovation. 3) Understand how to mesh the two environments in your organization.

Translational research and innovation are often co-mingled because they both involve ‘New stuff’. But they are actually very different. Translational research is the process of taking something proven to work in the lab, and making necessary adaptations to make it work ‘for real’ Innovation is fundamentally disruptive and often involves the use of a tool designed for one task and adapting it to address a different problem. It is NOT a process where there are multiple, well-defined steps. The two are fundamentally different, and generally are competitive, but potentially complementary.While they are both about ‘new stuff’, Innovation and Translation tend to be in opposition to each other. The fundamental values that guide them are polar opposites. In this session, key aspects of innovation and research will be examined. Ways to encourage both will be reviewed. Some of the threats or challenges of innovation and research will also be identified. At the end of the session, attendees should be able to recognize aspects of their organization that promotes and hinders both innovation and research. They might also identify ways that they can encourage both in their environment.

Erickson, B, ASRT@RSNA 2014: Innovation and Translational Research: How to Promote Each within Your Organizaiton.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/14000933.html