Over 120 trainees, scholars, faculty, and research professionals from across the CCTS Partner Network gathered in Gulf Shores, Alabama, for the 2025 CCTS Translational Science Symposium (TSS25), a one and a half day in-person event hosted October 30–31 at The Lodge at Gulf State Park. Designed to foster connection and collaboration across disciplines, this year’s symposium featured interactive workshops, skill-building sessions, and a celebration of research excellence.
Building Momentum Through Connection
The event began with Catalytic Collaborations, a hands-on networking session led by Kayla Pavlick, PhD, and CCTS staff, setting the stage for cross-institutional engagement. Attendees then explored emerging opportunities in artificial intelligence through a session led by Jake Chen, PhD, followed by a panel discussion on dissemination and implementation science featuring Michael Mugavero, MD, Salisa Westrick, PhD, Karen Johnson, PhD, and Peter Katzmarzyk, PhD.
Later in the day, Donna Williams, DrPH offered practical insights during a session titled Partnering for Impact: Getting Started in Community-Engaged Research, rounding out a full slate of programming that emphasized real-world application and collaborative strategy.
Keynote Spotlights: Leadership and Global Perspective
Two keynote presentations offered powerful reflections on leadership and impact in translational science.
- Dr. Reshma Jagsi, Lawrence W. Davis Professor and Chair of Radiation Oncology at Emory University, delivered the Thursday evening keynote on ethical leadership in science, encouraging researchers to embrace transparency, empathy, and accountability in their work.
- On day two, Dr. Christine Chavret (Auburn University) and Brier Dames (University of Bath) delivered a joint keynote titled One World, One Future, One Health: Converging Research Across the Globe, exploring how cross-border collaboration can drive innovation in health, environment, and society.
Celebrating Excellence in 3MT and Poster Presentations
As in past years, the Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) and Poster Presentation competitions provided a platform for emerging scientists to showcase their work in engaging formats. Winners were announced during Thursday evening’s CCTS Collaboration Dinner Reception.
TSS25 Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Winners
1st Place
Ellen Antwi-Adjei
University of Alabama at Birmingham
2nd Place
Aaron Lucander
University of Alabama at Birmingham
3rd Place
Oluchukwu Ezeala
Auburn UniversityTSS25 Poster Presentation Winners
1st Place
Angelina Toluhi
University of Alabama at Birmingham
2nd Place
Rachel Fleck
University of South Alabama
3rd Place
Samira Salimiyan
Auburn UniversityPreparing the Next Generation of Translational Scientists
Day two of the symposium featured “Science Bites,” a TED-style session coordinated by Jennifer Pollock, PhD, followed by breakout tracks tailored to trainees and early-career faculty. Participants attended targeted sessions on crafting specific aims, building a compelling CV and LinkedIn profile, identifying funding opportunities, and navigating career progression within academia.
“The symposium provides space for meaningful interaction between emerging investigators and seasoned leaders,” said Nita A. Limdi, PharmD, PhD, MSPH, FAHA, CCTS Training Academy Director. “It’s about building the future of translational science together—one conversation, connection, and idea at a time.”
Photo Gallery and Event Highlights
To explore and download full-size photos from the event and revisit TSS25 highlights, visit the complete 2025 TSS25 Photo Gallery. For more opportunities to connect, learn, and grow with the CCTS, subscribe to the CCTS Digest ;and follow us on LinkedIn.