The Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS) is thrilled to announce the newest cohort of K12 Scholars. These outstanding individuals represent a diverse array of disciplines from across the CCTS Partner Network, including pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, social work, infectious diseases, and health policy and management. Selected through a rigorous competitive process, K12 scholars receive two years of comprehensive clinical and translational science development support.

Mission and Goal

See more information about the CCTS 2024 K12 Scholars below.The CCTS K12 program prepares early-career faculty who have recently completed a research or health professional doctorate for a career in translational research. The goal of this program is to impart the knowledge, experience, and perspective required to develop a network of independent investigators, with an emphasis on research that addresses diseases and health disparities that disproportionately affect the Deep South. The program culminates in lead-author manuscripts and an extramurally-funded research grant submission (e.g., K23, R01) for scholars.

Program Structure

K12 scholars enroll in an educational program, typically the Clinical and Translational Science Training Program, which imparts the CTSA core competencies as part of the curriculum. Concurrently, they embark on a research apprenticeship under the guidance of a mentoring team with an exceptional training record, ensuring extended close interaction and support throughout their journey.

A hallmark of the K12 experience is the dual emphasis on formal training and hands-on research. Scholars benefit from protected time, allowing them to engage deeply in both educational and research activities. We are proud of the K12 program's commitment to fostering knowledge, experience, and perspective in junior faculty from clinical or related disciplines. Through this program, the CCTS continues to advance its mission of transforming health care through innovative research and training. If you are interested in becoming a future CCTS K12 scholar, visit our Deep South Mentored Career Development Program web page for more information.

Join us in celebrating our new cohort of K12 Scholars and their journey toward becoming leaders in translational research!

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Carlos E. Cardenas, PhD 2024 K12 Scholar Assistant Professor Department of Radiation Oncology University of Alabama at Birmingham

Christy Foster, MD 2024 K12 Scholar Assistant Professor Department of Pediatrics and Endocrinology University of Alabama at Birmingham

Lindsey Hohmann, PharmD 2024 K12 Scholar Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacy Practice Auburn University

Holly Lynn Horan, PhD 2024 K12 Scholar Tenure-Track Assistant Professor Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Alabama at Birmingham

Jessica Jaiswal, PhD 2024 K12 Scholar Assistant Professor, Department of Health Science University of Alabama

Karen Andrene Johnson, PhD 2024 K12 Scholar Assistant Professor, Department of Social Work University of Alabama

Olivia T. Van Gerwen, MD, MPH 2024 K12 Scholar Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases University of Alabama at Birmingham

Brigham C Walker, PhD 2024 K12 Scholar Assistant Professor, Public Health and Tropical Medicine Tulane University