This focused session brings together experienced hepatology researchers to share insights on the critical elements of building a successful research career, whether pursuing a clinician-investigator or academic researcher path. Through 3 comprehensive lectures and an interactive panel discussion, participants learn essential strategies for establishing mentorship relationships, conducting impactful clinical research, and navigating the academic timeline. For clinicians maintaining busy practices, speakers address practical approaches to integrating research activities within clinical responsibilities, including strategies for protected research time and efficient study execution. For those pursuing dedicated academic research careers, the session covers establishing independent research programs, securing sustained funding, and building research teams. The session features leading experts who share their personal experiences and practical advice from both career paths, followed by an open forum where attendees can engage directly with speakers to address specific questions about research career development in hepatology.
Presentations
11:00 AM - 11:10 AM
Nov
10
2025
San Diego, CA
Mastering the Mentor-Mentee Dynamic: Building Foundations for Success
Jennifer C Lai, MD, MBA, Presenter
11:10 AM - 11:20 AM
Nov
10
2025
San Diego, CA
Finding Your Research Niche, Purpose, and Community
Jasmohan S. Bajaj, MD, FAASLD, Presenter
11:20 AM - 11:30 AM
Nov
10
2025
San Diego, CA
Turning Your Clinical Day Into Scholarship: A Practical Guide to Research for the Busy Clinician
Sumeet Asrani, MD, Presenter
11:30 AM - 11:40 AM
Nov
10
2025
San Diego, CA
From Bench to Bedside: Translational Opportunities for Clinical Investigators
Renumathy Dhanasekaran, MD, PhD, Presenter
11:40 AM - 11:50 AM
Nov
10
2025
San Diego, CA
The Academic Research Journey: The Road to Independent Investigator
Lisa B. VanWagner, MD, MS, Director, Clinical Research, Presenter
1:37 PM - 1:37 PM
Nov
10
2025
San Diego, CA
Panel Discussion and Q&A
Elsa Solà, MD PhD, Moderator
Objectives
Review effective strategies for identifying mentors and establishing research programs that align with career goals, whether pursuing a clinician-investigator or academic research path.
Outline practical approaches to integrate research activities into clinical practice, including methods for securing protected time, building collaborative networks, and maintaining work-life balance.
Discuss navigation of the critical transitions in academic hepatology, from mentored to independent investigator, while identifying and avoiding common career development pitfalls.