About OCTRI

Translating innovative research ideas into impact

OCTRI is a catalyst for scientific collaboration, translation of biomedical advances into the community, innovation and research growth in Oregon and beyond.

To fulfill the great potential of research to improve human health, the scientific discoveries happening all over the world must be translated into practical tools and knowledge. That’s the essence of what we do at OCTRI (“oak tree”). Our work and our passion is to help investigators, regional partners, and members of study teams remove barriers, apply best practices, and translate biomedical advances into preventions and treatments.

Invaluable support through every stage of the research process

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Since 2006, OCTRI has worked to accelerate discoveries toward better health by pursuing these strategic goals:

  • Catalyze translational research
  • Develop the translational workforce
  • Cultivate innovation in research
  • Foster and support scientific collaboration
  • Enhance partnerships with communities

Our mission is to enhance the efficiency and quality of rigorously translating research ideas into impact. 

OCTRI Structure and Programs

OCTRI is comprised of more than 10 teams that provide a wide variety of programs and services designed to support and advance clinical and translational research.  We also engage internal, external, and community advisory groups, in addition to local, regional, and national partnerships.

Funding and history

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OCTRI is funded by the National Institutes of Health (UL1TR002369) through the Clinical and Translational Science Award Program, run by the National Center for Advancing Translational Science (NCATS). OCTRI also has a significant institutional commitment from OHSU.  OCTRI uses our funding to provide as many no-cost services as possible to investigators at OHSU and our partner institutions.  We supplement our no-cost services with some fee-for-service models. 

OCTRI was among the first 12 academic health centers to be awarded with the Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) in 2006.  Since then, the CTSA consortium has expanded to include 50+ hubs around the country, all motivated to energize and advance clinical and translational science. 

What is translational science?

The translational science spectrum represents each stage of research along the path from the biological basis of health and disease to interventions that improve the health of individuals and the public.

Translational science is the field of investigation focused on understanding the scientific and operational principles underlying each step of the translational process. 

The translational process turns observations in the laboratory, clinic and community into interventions that improve the health of individuals and the public — from diagnostics and therapeutics to medical procedures and behavioral changes.

Learn more about translation and translational science on the NCATS website or with this NCATS video.

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Ready to discuss your needs?

Contact an OCTRI Navigator for project guidance and support.

503-418-9790

octri@ohsu.edu

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Looking for OCTRI faculty and staff?

Find us here