The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Research Career Development Program stands as a cornerstone initiative, dedicated to nurturing the careers of researchers committed to advancing healthcare for Veterans. This program is meticulously designed to provide both clinically and non-clinically trained researchers with invaluable protected time. This dedicated period allows them to immerse themselves in mentored research experiences, propelling them towards becoming independent, funded VA investigators and, ultimately, leaders in their respective fields.
Understanding the VA Career Development Program
The VA’s commitment to fostering research across a broad spectrum of disciplines is evident in the Career Development Program. It extends its reach across all areas of Investigators, Scientific Review & Management (ISRM), encompassing vital fields such as Brain, Behavioral and Mental Health (BBMH), Health Systems Research (HSR), Medical Health (MH), and Rehabilitation Research and Development and Translation (RRDT) Broad Portfolios. The program emphasizes a collaborative approach, where applicants, guided by their mentors, are expected to select research projects that are not only feasible but also resonate with their backgrounds and passions. This careful alignment is intended to lay a robust foundation for a successful and impactful VA research career.
Levels of Career Development Awards
The program is structured into distinct award levels, each tailored to support researchers at different stages of their career trajectory:
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CDA-1: Entry-Level Program: This award is the gateway to a research-focused career within the VA, welcoming both clinicians and non-clinicians. The evaluation process for CDA-1 heavily emphasizes the candidate’s qualifications, the strength of the mentorship provided, and the comprehensiveness of the proposed 2-year career development plan.
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CDA-2: Mid-Level Program: Designed for researchers who are further along in their careers, CDA-2 continues to be inclusive of clinicians and non-clinicians. Applicants at this level are required to present detailed career development plans and research projects spanning a 3-5 year period, reflecting a more sustained commitment to VA research.
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CDEA: Senior Scientist Enhancement Award: This prestigious award is aimed at senior VA scientists, both non-clinicians and clinicians, seeking to enhance their research capabilities. The CDEA provides up to six months of salary support, coupled with local institutional support for an additional six months, effectively offering a year-long “sabbatical” dedicated to acquiring new research skills and expanding their expertise.
Application Process: Your Pathway to a VA Research Career
Embarking on the path of a VA research career through the Career Development Program involves a structured application process. While applicants are not required to hold a VA appointment at the time of application, nomination by a VA facility and the identification of a suitable VA mentor are essential prerequisites. The program is open to a diverse range of researchers, including MDs, clinicians, and PhDs, provided they possess the requisite experience and training.
Prospective nominees are strongly encouraged to collaborate closely with their sponsoring research office to prepare a pre-application. This initial step is crucial in the review process. Upon approval of the pre-application, candidates are then invited to develop a full application in accordance with the specific guidelines outlined in the Career Development Award RFAs (Request for Applications). It is the sponsoring VA research office that officially submits the application on behalf of the nominee.
Key Deadlines for Pre-Application Submission
Adhering to the submission deadlines is critical for applicants. The pre-application submission deadlines for each review cycle are as follows:
| CYCLE | PREAPPLICATION SUBMISSION DEADLINES |
|---|---|
| Winter | August 1 |
| Spring | November 1 |
| Summer | February 1 |
| Fall | May 1 |
Note: If a deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, the submission is due on the next business day. Early submission of pre-applications is highly encouraged.
For any inquiries regarding the Career Development Award Program, please contact: [email protected]
This program represents a significant investment in the future of VA research, ensuring a continuous pipeline of talented and dedicated researchers working to improve the lives of Veterans.
