Translational Trailblazers: Dr. Pardaman Setia

Each month, we highlight a current student in the Translational Research Program (TRP).  

Meet first-year student, diagnostic radiologist – Dr. Pardaman Setia. 

Dr. Setia spent 12 years interpreting complex medical imaging to guide patient care decisions. Working closely with advanced imaging technology opened his eyes to how rapidly healthcare is evolving through innovation and it inspired him to be part of that change by joining the TRP. 

“Translational Research” can mean different things to different people – what does it mean to you?

Translational research in the TRP is all about bridging the gap between scientific discoveries and real patient outcomes. It’s about more than just publishing papers - it's about turning ideas into practical solutions that actually improve lives. The TRP has shown me how to take research from concept to clinical impact. 

What inspired you to join the TRP? 

Richard Susskind's book “The Future of the Professions” really resonated with me, especially his insights into how technology is reshaping traditional medical roles. As a radiologist, I was already seeing this transformation firsthand. I joined the TRP because I wanted to help drive this change, not just react to it. I knew I needed a structured way to turn my ideas into practical solutions that could benefit patients. 

What has been a highlight for you in the program so far?

The program’s blend of personalized learning and real-world problem-solving has been incredible. Rather than focusing only on theory, we’re tackling actual healthcare challenges. Seeing how my clinical experience contributes to innovative solutions has been truly energizing. 

What opportunities have you found most valuable in the program so far?

Working on the kidney transplant decision-making tools project was eye-opening. Coming from radiology, I gained fresh perspectives collaborating with professionals from diverse fields - from data scientists to patient advocates. These cross-disciplinary interactions have challenged my assumptions and expanded my thinking about healthcare innovation. 

How has your journey in the TRP so far influenced your approach to healthcare challenges and patient care?

The TRP has completely transformed how I approach problems in healthcare. I now evaluate challenges more systematically and think of developing solutions with greater confidence. It has taught me to question established practices and explore innovative approaches, always with the patient’s benefit as my guiding star. 

How do you see this program influencing your career trajectory in healthcare? 

The TRP is equipping me with essential skills in innovation and implementation science that complement my clinical expertise. I’m learning to ask better questions, challenge my biases, and step outside my comfort zone. These new capabilities are already helping me make meaningful improvements in patient care. 

What excites you most about the future of healthcare, and how does the TRP fit into your vision?

I’m fascinated by the potential of AI to transform healthcare delivery. As a radiologist, I’ve seen firsthand how technology can enhance clinical decision-making. The TRP is helping me understand how to implement these innovations in real clinical settings, ensuring they truly benefit patients and healthcare providers. 

How are you balancing taking part in the TRP with your current career stage?

Balancing clinical work with the TRP is challenging but rewarding. I’ve found ways to integrate my learning into my daily practice, which helps reinforce concepts and create immediate impact. For example, after learning about user-centered design, I applied it to improve the structure of my reports, making them easier for referring clinicians to read. The key is finding synergies between my work and TRP projects, making both more manageable and meaningful. 

What advice would you give to others considering this master’s program?

Embrace the opportunity to step outside your clinical bubble. As healthcare professionals, we often have a narrow view of healthcare delivery. The TRP opens your eyes to the broader healthcare ecosystem and equips you with the tools to create meaningful change. If you're passionate about improving healthcare delivery, this program is the perfect framework for making it happen.