The path to becoming a leading researcher is paved with dedication, rigorous study, and often, strategic support. For those committed to advancing their research careers within the VA system, the Cdp Career Development Program stands as a pivotal opportunity. This program is meticulously designed to provide both clinically and non-clinically trained researchers with the invaluable protected time needed to immerse themselves in mentored research experiences. The ultimate goal? To propel these researchers towards independence and establish them as funded VA investigators, contributing significantly to their respective fields. Many awardees of this esteemed program have indeed risen to become national and international luminaries in their areas of research.
Understanding CDP Award Levels: Tailoring Support to Your Career Stage
The CDP Career Development Program recognizes that researchers are at different stages of their professional journey. To cater to this diversity, the program offers distinct award levels, each with specific focuses and durations:
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CDA-1: Launching Your Research Trajectory: This entry-level program serves as the perfect springboard for researchers, whether clinicians or non-clinicians, embarking on their independent research careers. The evaluation process for CDA-1 heavily emphasizes the candidate’s qualifications, the strength of the mentorship provided, and the comprehensiveness of the proposed 2-year career development plan. It’s about setting a solid foundation for future success.
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CDA-2: Mid-Career Advancement and Specialization: For researchers at the mid-stage of their careers, CDA-2 offers a crucial platform for deeper specialization and project development. Open to both clinical and non-clinical backgrounds, this program requires applicants to articulate detailed career development plans and research projects spanning a 3 to 5-year period. This level is designed to foster significant contributions and leadership within their chosen research domain.
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CDEA: The Career Development Enhancement Award for Senior Scientists: Recognizing the ongoing need for growth and adaptation even at senior levels, the CDEA program is tailored for seasoned VA scientists, both non-clinicians and clinicians. This award provides up to six months of salary support specifically for acquiring new research skills. Combined with an equivalent period of local support, it offers a transformative year-long “sabbatical” to rejuvenate and expand the capabilities of established researchers.
How to Apply for the CDP Career Development Program
Gaining access to the CDP Career Development Program is a structured process that ensures alignment with VA research priorities and mentorship availability. While applicants are not required to hold a VA appointment at the initial application stage, nomination by a VA facility is mandatory, along with the identification of a suitable VA mentor. The program welcomes applications from a broad spectrum of researchers, including MDs, clinicians, and PhDs, provided they possess the necessary experience and training to excel in their chosen research path.
The application journey begins with close collaboration between nominees and their sponsoring research office to prepare a preapplication. This initial step is critical, serving as the gateway to the full review process. Upon approval of the preapplication, candidates can then proceed to develop a comprehensive application, adhering to the guidelines outlined in the specific Career Development Award RFAs (Request for Applications). It’s the responsibility of the sponsoring VA research office to officially submit the application on behalf of the nominee.
To assist with planning, preapplication submission deadlines are set for each review cycle throughout the year:
| CYCLE | PREAPPLICATION SUBMISSION DEADLINES |
|---|---|
| Winter | August 1 |
| Spring | November 1 |
| Summer | February 1 |
| Fall | May 1 |
Note: Should a deadline fall on a weekend or holiday, the submission deadline extends to the next business day. Early preapplication submissions are strongly encouraged.
For any inquiries or further information regarding the Career Development Award Program, please direct your questions to: [email protected]. Embark on your journey to research excellence with the CDP Career Development Program and take your career to new heights.
