PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT – Pilot and Feasibility Program The purpose of the Pilot and Feasibility Program (PFP) of the Washington University Center for Diabetes Translation Research (WU-CDTR) is to promote innovative and transformative research designed to eliminate disparities in diabetes by investigators new to the field. The PFP focuses on T2-T4 translational research defined as ‘translating interventions and approaches that have demonstrated efficacy into real-world healthcare settings, communities, and diverse populations with an emphasis on reach, sustainability, and potential for widespread implementation’. The PFP provides initial research support over limited time periods to eligible investigators exploring the feasibility of ideas or concepts related to the WU-CDTR mission to be the nexus for transdisciplinary team science in advancing the conduct of next generation diabetes translation research. A priority of the PFP is to attract and retain early-stage investigators conducting diabetes translation research, and to successfully support the development of all investigators who are members of the WU-CDTR. Members of the WU-CDTR are affiliated through Washington University in St. Louis; the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO; and the Council on Black Health at Drexel University. The PFP allows investigators to develop preliminary data sufficient to provide the basis for subsequent applications for independent research support from outside granting mechanisms. The successes of this program can be demonstrated in significant new external funding, career advancement, and publications of PFP grant recipients. The specific aims of the PFP are to continue to provide support for: (1) new investigators in T2 to T4 diabetes translation research without current or past independent NIH research support; (2) established investigators with previous work in diabetes translation research who want to explore innovative new directions in research; and (3) established investigators from other scientific or disciplinary areas without previous work in diabetes who are entering into new T2 to T4 diabetes translation research that represents a clear departure from their ongoing research interests. Future directions for the PFP, based on our Center mission and careful evaluation of this progress, will build on principles of mentorship and collaboration to assure continued success of the program.