(DRAFT) Pre-doc Preparatory Program (P3) in Translational Research
About the Program
ITMAT Education (ITMAT Ed) at the University of Pennsylvania and the Leukodystrophy Center of Excellence (LCE) at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia provide a one-year Pre-Doc Preparatory Program (P3) in Translational Research to formalize the education and training of research coordinators, genetic counseling assistants, research technicians, and others currently involved in the leukodystrophies who plan to pursue further education through medical or graduate school.
This program lays the foundation for understanding practical aspects of rare disease translational research. Scholars are introduced to clinical study design, ethical considerations in clinical research, data management, and the pre-clinical drug development process. Scholars will build and practice professional skills throughout the academic year though communication workshops (VitalTalk) and workplace interaction coaching sessions, meet with advocacy group leaders, practice presenting their research in progress, and learn about career pathways through panel discussions. P3 Scholars are introduced to these topics through asynchronous and synchronous learning environments. The content of the course includes seminars, case studies, scholar presentations, journal article-reviews, panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and scientific meetings.
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Protected TimeP3 Scholars are expected to be provided with 2 hours of protected time each week to pursue formal education in clinical & translational research.
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Primarily OnlineMost of the sessions will be held online via Zoom with opportunities to connect in person at meetings and events
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NIH FundedNIH funding is provided to support program costs for participants, including travel awards to program meetings and events.
Eligibility
- Currently a research coordinator, genetic counseling assistant, or research technician involved in Global Leukodystrophy Initiative Clinical Trials Network (GLIA-CTN) activities at your site. Exceptions may be made for other entry-level research staff who plan to pursue graduate or medical school education in the future.
- Interested in growing a career in research and seeking professional development opportunities. The curriculum is targeting future leaders in translational research.
- Able to attend and participate in the program on Fridays from 11am to 1pm EST (Note that timing might shift for some in person events.)
- Site Investigator support and approval of conditions of enrollment.