The RRCD program is geared towards rehabilitation scholars who are occupational and physical therapists, and builds on the extensive rehabilitation research infrastructure of the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health), the University of Florida (UF), and the University of Southern California (USC), along with a network of NCMRR Research Infrastructure Cores, VA Centers of Excellence, rehabilitation research institutes, and physical and occupational therapy departments nationwide.

Physical and occupational therapy scholars from across the nation are recruited and trained to become future leaders and mentors in rehabilitation. Scholars acquire extensive research experience, generate, analyze, present and publish research data, and become equipped to compete for independent external research funding. The program takes advantage of its extensive rehabilitation research network to negotiate faculty positions in research supportive academic environments.