There has been an increasing focus on the process of translating research into practice in all fields of health and social services. This focus has shed considerable light on the potential for social workers to play a pivotal role in conducting translational research and facilitating research translation. This article examines new opportunities, directions, and methods for engaging in translational research and research translation; provides examples of social worker leadership in specific translational research studies, methods development, training programs, and National Institutes of Health-funded Clinical and Translational Science Institutes; and describes a strategy for research that meets the specific needs and draws upon the specific strengths of our profession.
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