CTSA News

The Ohio State University Clinical and Translational Science Institute recently wrapped up the second annual Next STEPP Summer Camp. Next STEPP is an innovative summer camp designed to introduce high school students to careers in clinical research. The week-long immersive program brought together students from across the Central Ohio region to explore opportunities within clinical and translational science. Building on the 2025 inaugural camp, the 2026 camp expanded its curriculum to include opportunities for students to engage with the human impact of clinical research as well as the educational sessions and hands-on learning experiences that were successful last year.

The week-long immersive program brought together students from across the Central Ohio region to explore opportunities within clinical and translational science. Building on the 2025 inaugural camp, the 2026 camp expanded its curriculum to include opportunities for students to engage with the human impact of clinical research, as well as the educational sessions and hands-on learning experiences that were successful last year.

In addition to foundational content covering study coordination, research ethics, regulatory processes and data management, the 2026 camp incorporated a series of sessions featuring patients, survivors, and family members who have participated in clinical research.

Through these discussions, students gained insight into the real world impact of clinical trials and the role research plays in improving patient outcomes. Participants heard firsthand accounts that highlighted the importance of trust, communication, and ethical responsibility in the research process. Students also learned about the role of community engagement in clinical trial start-up and explored how efforts such as COVID-19 Operation Warp Speed accelerated the development and testing of new therapies while maintaining regulatory oversight. These discussions align with HHS’s recently released Operation TrialBlazer initiative, which aims to modernize and accelerate clinical research by reducing barriers to trial activation, enhancing patient engagement, and improving access to innovative treatments. These experiences helped students connect scientific discovery with the people and communities it serves.

Students also had the opportunity to learn directly from clinical research professionals representing a range of disciplines and career pathways. Faculty and research staff shared their professional journeys and provided perspective on the day-to-day work that supports clinical studies. Next STEPP’s emphasis on mentorship and professional exposure helps to support early interest in research related careers.

Next STEPP continues to be a strong example of how collaboration can create meaningful opportunities for students to explore careers in clinical research. Program feedback shows that participants remain highly engaged and leave with a better understanding of clinical research pathways and the many career options available to them. Students also reported a greater appreciation for how clinical research helps improve health and advance new treatments. By connecting hands-on learning experiences with real community perspectives, Next STEPP is helping inspire and prepare the next generation of the clinical research workforce.