Team retreats are a great way to bring everyone together, inspire teamwork and celebrate collaboration. The Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine held its first Research Retreat under the leadership of Dr. Tonya Palermo, Vice Chair for Research, with the help of a planning committee comprised of faculty and staff. It was attended by 30 people from within the department and was a great opportunity for building in-person connections.
Six phenomenal new investigator lightning talks by faculty provided an inspiring start to the day. The Department’s Chair, Dr. G. Burkhard Mackensen, discussed ‘The state of Department’s research’ and Dr. Palermo presented on ‘A summary of APM Research Needs Assessment Survey.’ These discussions set the stage for understanding the department’s commitment to investing and supporting research and scholarship, as well as understanding the priorities and needs of faculty to succeed with their research activities. The attendees also participated in break-out group sessions which brought to light the need for enhanced infrastructure for clinical and translational research.
The retreat ended with a visit to the historic ASUW Shell House, which is a Seattle landmark. A campaign is underway to raise $18.5 million to preserve and update the structure as a student space for lectures and gatherings.
The day helped in exposing everyone to each other’s work and interests. It also highlighted the importance and requirement of a yearly retreat to foster connection between the research groups within the department. Drs. Palermo and Mackensen are working on developing a list of priorities and making an action plan for the department’s research needs.