Research Curriculum

All scholars will develop an individualized learning and research plan to suit their educational needs and career goals. The education and evaluation of scholars will be linked to 10 educational objectives that define the fundamental knowledge, skills, and attitudes of an accomplished scientific investigator.

We anticipate that most clinical investigators will require formal education in research design and methods. They may choose to obtain an MS or PhD in clinical science through the K30-supported graduate program. Basic science researchers will focus on educational activities that orient them to clinical research and extend their past training.

Monthly BIRCWH Conferences will provide additional learning experiences and opportunities for networking among scholars that will include

1. A seminar series titled Practical Tools for Women's Health Research, that will teach principles and methods for basic, clinical, or translational research as well as key skills, such as career development, leadership and team building.
2. Scholars will also participate in a monthly Writers' Group led by an experienced instructor in scientific writing.
3. The monthly CIRWH seminar series will expose scholars to diverse areas of women's health research and allow them to interact with leaders and other trainees in women's health in the region. Networking with university leaders will also occur at quarterly dinner meetings.

As scholars progress through the program, increasingly independent mentored research experiences will culminate in guiding, planning and writing an NIH grant proposal. Completion of the program will require 2-3 years for a typical scholar.

By the end of the program, scholars will have acquired the necessary skills to become  funded investigators in their chosen area of women's health. The anticipated endpoint of the program for all scholars will be the award of a competitive NIH grant.