The committee’s 17 members reviewed 36 applications in 2005. They were from 32 applicants — an increase from 23 in 2003 and 29 in 2004. Congenital heart disease, acquired heart disease, oncology, and thoracic transplantation were well-represented from almost 50 different institutions during this three-year period.

The proposals varied widely in scientific focus. For example, the topics included immunobiology of thoracic aneurysms, molecular oncology and ventricular biomechanics. There was a healthy mix of mechanistic, translational, and clinical science. The applicants were outstanding, and the applications were strong, all addressing issues important to improving the care of patients.

Each application was reviewed by each member of the committee who assigned a score based on the applicants’ qualifications, the merits of the proposal, and evidence of a supportive environment. Also considered, was the likelihood that an award would favorably influence training and/or transition to successful NIH funding. The independent scores were compiled and the top applications were reviewed in person by the committee in session, using an NIH-style format. Each proposal was presented to the committee by two experts. The entire committee voted, resulting in priority scores.

Over half of the applications were judged competitive for funding. TSFRE funds permitted six awards at stable funding levels. The TSFRE Board has expressed its great appreciation for the many hours the committee members selflessly and diligently commit to this effort.

Traditionally prestigious institutions continue to be well represented among this year’s awardees, but fortunately each year new institutions have appeared on the roster. Excellent proposals, with relatively minor revisions, from this year’s “new” applicants and institutions will likely compete successfully in the future.

The committee is acutely aware that academic departments can no longer depend on diverting professional revenues to support research. Lack of this traditional source of bridge and seed funding enhances the need for fundraising to make it possible for TSFRE to increase the amount of individual awards, particularly to young faculty. In the political arena, cohesive arguments to improve research funding must be effectively advanced.

Starting in 2006 the Nina Starr Braunwald Career Development Award has been increased from $30,000 per year to $100,000 per year for two years to a young woman faculty member. For details please go to our website www.tsfre.org.

For the fourth consecutive year thoracic surgical applicants competed successfully for TSFRE/NHLBI Mentored Clinical Scientist Development Awards (K08). Five such awards are currently being supported by TSFRE and five new applications are under review at NHLBI. One NCI Mentored Patient Oriented Career Development Award (K23) was funded in 2005 and three K 23 applications are under review at NCI. TSFRE Research Committee members participate in the NIH review process. The joint TSFRE/NHLBI program is funded by the William J. von Liebig Foundation, Datascope Corp, The Starr Foundation, and the Cross-Jones Fund of the St. Luke’s Foundation. Fund raising for the TSFRE/NCI program is underway.

In summary, despite the grinding pressures and financial uncertainties we all face in our clinical practices, the breadth and high quality of the TSFRE-supported research effort reflects a strong commitment to fundamental and clinical thoracic surgical investigation. This vital basis for the future evolution of our specialty remains healthy and vibrant, thanks to your participation. Seeds planted in prior years are sprouting in many gardens. Your past and future gifts will help bring these seedlings to fruition.

Richard N. Pierson III, M.D., Chair