Innovation University
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At UMDNJ we define innovation in the very broadest terms. It is change, but not change just for the sake of change. It is looking at all things – in the laboratory, in the classroom, in the doctors’ offices – with a clearer vision not only of future requirements but also of future possibilities. Encouraging innovation helps us not only keep up, but move forward.
As the largest public academic health center in the nation, UMDNJ is a crucible of scientific innovation and positioned to be the foundation of the biomedical science sector so critical to the future of New Jersey. And without novel biomedical science there would be no critical advances in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of disease. Sixty percent of all basic biomedical research in this country is performed in colleges and universities, academic health centers like ours. This research forms the basis for development of new interventions and treatments by the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device industry.
Innovation is at the very core of our research. In laboratories at UMDNJ, our scientists are working to preserve fertility in cancer patients, fight depression, treat rare disorders, minimize the ravages of arthritis. As they find new ways to reduce mortality from such threats as heart disease, cancer, infectious diseases, diseases of childhood and the aging population, UMDNJ researchers contribute to the impact that the life sciences have on public health.
UMDNJ also prepares more than 1,000 health professionals every year, many of whom stay to practice in New Jersey. We are committed to excellence in education, and this means developing and implementing teaching tools for new times: robotic simulation for surgeons in training; a global health initiative that takes education on location; programs to train nurses in new specialties. We have embraced academic innovation to keep our students on the leading edge of a health sciences education.
As a statewide resource, UMDNJ counted more than two million patient visits to our facilities last year. Those who come expect world-class medicine right here in New Jersey; this is the promise of academic medicine. They benefit from innovative clinical care ranging from the treatment of atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia to the latest in robotic surgery to a minimally invasive endoscopic program. Plus they have access to a wide range of clinical trials only available at an academic medical center.
Innovation. Synonyms include advancement, novelty, diversity, metamorphosis, cutting- edge, revolutionary, transformative. The dictionary defines innovation as a change in the way of doing things, and that is certainly the guiding principle of much of what is happening at UMDNJ.
Innovation. That is how we keep New Jersey healthy.
Kathleen W. Scotto, PhD
Vice President for research