Through the CTSA “Beyond Boundaries” initiative, the University of Iowa championed the Research Unit Network (RUN), a National and International collaboration of Clinical Research Units (CRUs) to support the mission of improving translational science. CRUs are central hubs that accelerate translational research. They provide the infrastructure, expertise, and services needed to manage study protocols, ensure compliance, and support research participants and their families. By bridging innovation and practice, CRUs streamline research by supporting the full translational spectrum from early clinical and pre-clinical studies to patient-centered outcomes.