TSFRE Research

In January of 2009, the Research Committee met to review 51 applications. Each major subspecialty area—congenital heart disease, adult acquired surgery, thoracic oncology and thoracic transplantation—was well represented. The proposals varied widely in scientific focus, ranging from transplantation immunology and molecular oncology to biomechanics and tissue engineering. There was also a healthy mix of mechanical, translational and clinical science. Most importantly, all of these proposals addressed issues important to improving care for our thoracic surgical patients.

The Committee’s work includes providing constructive criticism for each applicant. We strongly believe that this feedback will help young residents and faculty to submit ever more polished applications, and thus compete more effectively in traditional venues for increasingly scarce research funds. The committee is acutely aware that academic departments can no longer depend on diverting professional revenues to support research. Lack of this traditional bridge or seed funding enhances the need for fundraising to make it possible for TSFRE to increase the amount of individual awards, particularly to young faculty.

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.

Back to 2009 Annual Report