Featured K to R Essentials Graduate: Liza Behrens, PhD RN

Significant Impact: from K Award to Your First Big R01

What does it take to transition from a K Award to an R01 with confidence and clarity?

In this episode, I sit down with Liza Behrens, a recent K to R Essentials graduate and assistant professor of nursing at Penn State University. Liza shares her journey of navigating the complexities of research, grant writing, and leadership as a clinician scientist. From her experience in the K to R Essentials program, Liza learned not only how to structure her research career but also how to trust in her expertise and leadership potential.

We dive into the challenges of transitioning from a K Award to R01, the power of identifying your North Star, and how to stay laser-focused on what really matters in your career. Liza’s insights into balancing the demands of research with self-care and leadership offer a powerful reminder of the importance of nurturing your own growth as you develop your program of research.

Tune in to this episode to learn:

• How Liza balanced her clinical practice background with building a research career in gerontology

• The critical role of the North Star framework in shaping her research priorities and career goals

• Why learning to take care of yourself, the “golden goose,” is key to long-term research success

• Practical strategies for organizing research milestones and staying focused on your long-term goals

• How to navigate the shift from K Award to R01 with confidence and purpose

Join us as we explore Liza’s journey from clinician scientist to research leader, and discover how you can apply these lessons to your own career.