The highest scientific honor and responsibility we bestow on our researchers is the designation of RTI Fellow. Chosen for their potential as well as their accomplishments, Fellows are leaders who integrate the best of our scientific talent into our business strategy and enhance the impact of our research on society. To qualify for the RTI Fellow Program, candidates must have demonstrated a record of substantial scientific achievement and leadership.
Promoting and Advancing Scientific Excellence
An important role of Fellows is to advise senior management on emerging issues related to their areas of scientific expertise that affect our research programs. For example, the Fellow Program developed a formal process for assessing the state of the science, allowing us to make informed decisions about how to advance our scientific capabilities to better meet the needs within a targeted area of research.
The Fellow Program also leads our Grand Challenge initiative, which leverages our expertise and resources to address important, complex societal challenges. These are challenges that require multiple scientific disciplines, such as finding ways to reduce occurrence of and improve care for noncommunicable diseases in developing countries, or understanding and addressing the health and environmental problems created by the advent of e-cigarettes.
The Fellow Program’s Seminar Series and Distinguished Lecture Series provide additional opportunities to expand our technical understanding, explore emerging areas of research, and encourage new partnerships. The Seminar Series serves as a forum for knowledge sharing within RTI, with the goal of fostering our culture of collaboration. The Distinguished Lecture Series invites noted experts to visit RTI and lead discussions that intersect with our mission to improve the human condition by turning knowledge into practice.
Leadership Opportunities for Outstanding Scientists
The Fellow Program offers its members the distinction of being recognized as a scientific leader and promotes continued excellence by providing sufficient time and financial support to
- Identify and pursue research projects in their areas of expertise
- Pursue opportunities for enhancing personal and institutional scientific stature through publications, patents, technical presentations, seminars, and other professional activities
- Advise on and advocate for science at RTI.
Researchers who progress through the Fellow program are expected to expand their scientific stature with an eye toward building cross-disciplinary partnerships, representing RTI in the public arena, and making an impact on RTI and society. We also recruit Visiting Fellows to serve as senior advocates for our capabilities and policy expertise.