The Vision

Why a translational social sciences research initiative?

In medicine, translational research involves taking discoveries in the lab and turning them into products or protocols: Targeted cancer therapy, imaging technology, and movement therapy for stroke rehabilitation all began at the lab bench and were transformed into clinical applications to improve health.

In technology, basic science in fields like solid-state physics and quantum mechanics led to everything from the transistor to the laser, and all the commercial products that rely on these and other inventions.

In social sciences, our research has led to medical advances, when we integrate insights from behavioral health and a deeper understanding of culture, community and family into care. It has led to new products and user experiences, from powerful artificial intelligence learning systems to commonplace products like cupholders in cars

What often gets left out, however, is when social science turns into societal benefit. Not necessarily a product that can be bought and sold. Not IP that can be licensed. But real-world improvements in the lives of our children, the resilience of our communities, and the productivity of our workplaces.

That's where the NeXT Center Initiative comes in. We serve the greater good by leveraging social science research expertise for our community, and beyond.