Refocusing the Translational Research Paradigm on Problem-solving and Community Engagement: Recommendations from a Critical Review of the Literature

Translational research and problem-solving have direct application to university-based units charged with community outreach and engagement. This article describes a critical review of the literature focused on identifying and developing guidelines that might inform operating procedures of university-based translational research and other problem solving units. This review focuses on the potential use of the translational research model as a strategy to address problems in communities, schools and/or other organizations. It is meant to provide a blueprint for how translational research professionals might conduct their business on behalf of the constituencies they serve. As such, it provides several concrete recommendations that are intended to guide day-to-day practices of translational research professionals and policies of the organizations in which they work.