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TRIO Receives R25 Grant To Cultivate The Next Generation Of Otolaryngologist–Scientists

by Renée Bacher •

R01 grant.

While the immediate goal is to support individual researchers, the long-term vision is to strengthen the entire pipeline of clinician-scientists in otolaryngology. By fostering a culture of mentorship and providing structured career development support, the program’s goal is to increase the number of otolaryngologists successfully competing for NIH funding. “We’re hopeful this is a real change in the way that academic otolaryngology and otolaryngology specialty societies are going to help sponsor research—something really new and different,” Dr. Piccirillo said.

For TRIO, the program aligns closely with its mission of promoting scholarship in the field, according to Dr. Goldstein. “By nurturing the next generation of researcher–clinicians, the Society hopes to see more otolaryngologists complete the research thesis required for membership, strengthening the academic foundation of the specialty as a whole.”

The program also has the potential to impact patient care by accelerating the translation of research findings into clinical practice. As more otolaryngologists engage in high-quality research, the specialty may see an increase in evidence-based innovations that directly improve patient outcomes. Moreover, by supporting researchers at a wide range of institutions—not just traditional academic powerhouses—the program could help democratize research in otolaryngology. “This broader base of researchers could lead to more diverse research questions being explored, potentially addressing understudied areas or populations,” Dr. Goldstein said.

As the Neely National Clinician–Scientist Mentorship Network takes shape, it could play a transformative role in cultivating scientific leaders in otolaryngology. “By breaking down geographic barriers, providing structured support, and leveraging the expertise of established researchers, the program offers a promising model for expanding the ranks of otolaryngologist–scientists equipped to drive innovation in patient care,” Dr. Goldstein said.  

Those interested in joining the first mentee group in January should contact Dr. Newlands at shawn_newlands@urmc.rochester.edu.

Renée Bacher is a freelance medical writer based in Louisiana.