Embarking on a research career, particularly within the esteemed Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), requires strategic planning and access to resources that foster growth and independence. The VA Research Career Development Program stands as a pivotal initiative designed to nurture talented researchers, both clinicians and non-clinicians, propelling them towards becoming independent, funded VA investigators and leaders in their respective fields. This guide serves as your initial brochure to understanding and navigating this invaluable program.
Understanding VA Career Development Awards
The VA’s commitment to advancing healthcare for veterans is deeply rooted in groundbreaking research across diverse domains. The Investigators, Scientific Review & Management (ISRM) encompasses a broad spectrum, including Brain, Behavioral and Mental Health (BBMH), Health Systems Research (HSR), Medical Health (MH), and Rehabilitation Research and Development and Translation (RRDT). The Career Development Program offers distinct award levels tailored to different stages of a researcher’s journey:
CDA-1: Launching Your Research Career
The CDA-1 award is the entry point into the program, welcoming both clinicians and non-clinicians eager to immerse themselves in mentored research. This two-year program is meticulously structured to emphasize the candidate’s qualifications, the strength of the mentorship, and the robustness of the career development plan. It’s the ideal springboard for those starting their independent research trajectory within the VA system.
CDA-2: Mid-Career Advancement and Specialization
Building upon the foundation laid by CDA-1 or equivalent experience, the CDA-2 award caters to mid-level researchers. Open to both clinical and non-clinical backgrounds, CDA-2 awardees embark on a more extended journey, developing and executing comprehensive career development plans and research projects over a 3-5 year period. This award facilitates deeper specialization and the establishment of a significant research portfolio.
CDEA: Enhancing Expertise for Senior Scientists
The Career Development Enhancement Award (CDEA) is designed for senior VA scientists, both clinicians and non-clinicians, seeking to invigorate their research careers. This unique award provides up to six months of salary support, coupled with matching local support, to enable scientists to acquire new research skills. This “sabbatical” year offers a transformative opportunity for seasoned researchers to expand their methodological toolkit and explore new research avenues, ensuring continued innovation and leadership.
How to Apply for a VA Career Development Award
Securing a Career Development Award involves a structured application process, emphasizing collaboration and institutional support. While VA appointment is not mandatory at the application stage, nomination by a VA facility and identification of a suitable VA mentor are essential prerequisites. The program is inclusive, welcoming MDs, clinicians, and PhDs with relevant experience and training across diverse research disciplines.
Alt text: Dedicated researchers collaborating in a lab setting, embodying the spirit of VA Career Development Programs.
The application journey begins with a preapplication, prepared in close collaboration with the sponsoring research office. This initial step undergoes a rigorous review process. Successful preapplications pave the way for the nominee to develop a full application, aligning with specific Career Development Award Requests for Applications (RFAs). Crucially, the sponsoring VA research office assumes responsibility for submitting the application on behalf of the nominee, underscoring the institutional commitment to the program.
Preapplication Submission Deadlines:
| CYCLE | PREAPPLICATION SUBMISSION DEADLINES |
|---|---|
| Winter | August 1 |
| Spring | November 1 |
| Summer | February 1 |
| Fall | May 1 |
Note: Deadlines falling on weekends or holidays are shifted to the next business day. Early submission is highly encouraged.
For any inquiries regarding the Career Development Award Program, prospective applicants are encouraged to reach out to the dedicated contact email: [email protected].
Charting Your Path to Research Excellence
The VA Career Development Program is more than just funding; it’s a comprehensive career guidance initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of leading VA researchers. By providing protected time, mentorship, and resources, the program empowers awardees to make significant contributions to veterans’ health and well-being. If you are driven to pursue a impactful research career within a system dedicated to service and innovation, explore the opportunities within the VA Career Development Program and take the first step towards charting your path to research excellence.
