Scientific Management Accelerating Research & Tenure (SMART)
SMART is a dynamic, day-long scientific leadership and management program designed to empower early career faculty on the tenure-accruing or clinical scholar tracks to fast-track their research success. Geared toward those in the initial stages of building their independent research programs, SMART highlights the essential tools, strategies, and insights needed to confidently launch and sustain a thriving research career.
Program Goals
The SMART program is designed to help newly appointed principal investigators jumpstart their careers. Tailored for both basic science and clinical translational investigators, SMART fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and helps build a vibrant, supportive research community.
Topics include:
- Launch and sustain your research program with confidence.
- Build and lead high-performing teams through effective mentorship and motivation.
- Use time management to balance research, publishing, and career growth.
- Establish your personal brand and strategically market yourself.
- Expand your network and cultivate meaningful collaborations.
- Keep your research funded.
- Understand how to stay on track for promotion.
Why SMART?
UT Southwestern is deeply invested in faculty success at all levels. The Office of Faculty Development is committed to equipping early-career faculty with the tools they need to thrive.
Becoming an independent investigator at a leading academic medical center is both exciting and challenging. Many of the critical skills — leadership, negotiation, collaboration, and research strategy — are not always explicitly taught. SMART bridges that gap, helping junior faculty navigate unwritten rules, break down silos, and maximize their impact across clinical and basic research.
