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Our Impact on Research Operations

We cut through operational barriers so research studies can deliver answers faster.

Starting Studies Sooner

There are many steps that happen before new research projects can start. They can include negotiating agreements, building new infrastructure and bringing in the right expertise. Each step takes time and, as a result, slows start times and ultimately the results.

We have made these and other steps in the process faster and more efficient – shaving weeks and months off of project timelines. Our solutions include agreement templates that lay out the basic rules in advance, so collaborators can more quickly concur on the details. We also have developed research resources like chemical libraries and large clinical research networks that easily pivot to new research opportunities.

Because we use these approaches, we were ready – and stand ready – to respond quickly to public health emergencies. During COVID-19, these approaches kick-started therapeutic development efforts, real-world data sharing and major clinical trials. We share what we’ve developed and learned to help others speed their research efforts.

Explore All Areas of Our Impact


Impact Stories

National Pharmaceutical Collection (NPC)

The NCATS Pharmaceutical Collection (NPC) is a storehouse of approved drugs. Scientists use the collection to identify potential ways to repurpose drugs for new uses. Over the past 10 years, researchers used the NPC to study an array of pathways and disease models, generating an unparalleled amount of data. A number of projects produced drugs with new potential uses that have entered clinical trials, or have shown activity in testing, for several diseases and viruses.

The NCATS Pharmaceutical Collection is a comprehensive, publicly accessible collection of approved molecular entities for high-throughput screening that provides a valuable resource for both validating new models of disease and better understanding the molecular basis of diseases and interventions.

How NCATS Compound Management Speeds New Therapies

Kelli Wilson, Ph.D., director of Compound Management at NCATS, explains how the NCATS Compound Management group supports researchers via compound storage, registration, shipping and reformatting.

(video length: 2:48)


Research Operations Activities

We develop programs and resources that overcome operational barriers slowing down research projects.

female scientist in a lab coat looking at a computer

Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA) Program

The CTSA Program addresses the development and implementation of national standards and best practices for translation, from basic discovery to clinical and community-engaged research.

Hands holding pens and signing papers

Partner Forms and Model Agreements

We provide a full range of services to support NCATS technology development and partnership activities, including negotiating standard forms and model agreements between NCATS and outside parties.

Illustration of an adeno-associated virus carries a gene into a cell.

Platform Vector Gene Therapy (PaVe-GT)

Our pilot project is testing the feasibility of increasing the efficiency of gene therapy clinical trials by using the same gene delivery system and manufacturing methods for multiple gene therapies.


Research Operations News

NIH Labs Compete in the Freezer Challenge

July 18, 2025 - Grantee/Partner News

  • Our Impact on Research Operations

Children With Acute Allergic Reactions Often Spend Unnecessary Time in Hospitals

June 10, 2025 - Grantee/Partner News

  • Our Impact on Research Operations

Research Advancing Kentucky: Offering a Future Beyond Addiction

May 16, 2025 - Grantee/Partner News

  • Our Impact on Research Operations

Last updated on March 26, 2025