BIRCWH
Scholars are expected to commit 75 percent of their time to
research on a project related to women's health that they have designed and
proposed. Scholars should meet with their department chairs prior to applying
for the BIRCWH program to ensure this time commitment is guaranteed. Chairs
and directors must be aware that BIRCWH provides partial support of faculty
salaries.
Scholars may
be required to take core curriculum courses or substitute formal training
as approved by the BIRCWH directors. Additional didactic courses may be required
for individuals who may not have sufficient experience in research methods
or the latest information on important issues in women's health. The curriculum
can be tailored to meet the Scholars' experiences and academic background.
The curriculum will include:
- didactic course work;
- attendance at selected
clinical research seminars;
- attendance at the
BIRCWH seminar series;
- attendance at selected
journal clubs, seminars and training programs;
- participation in experiential
initiatives related to compliance and regulatory agencies;
- completion of a protege/mentor
training program;
- attendance at a one-day,
off-campus retreat twice a year; and
- completion of a mentored
research project culminating in the submission of a proposal to a nationally
recognized funding agency.
Scholars who
participate in the BIRCWH program come from diverse disciplines and research
experiences. Mentors and faculty work with scholars to design research programs
that meets their individual needs. Curricular requirements also are reviewed
and tailored to enhance each scholar's development. Scholars may submit an
individually designed curriculum for approval by the program directors. This
commitment to meeting individual needs is strengthened through the establishment
of supportive research teams and coaches.
All Scholars
are required to attend selected clinical research and BIRCWH seminars. These
90-minute seminars address topics important to the professional and career
development of scholars, mentors and coaches. Seminar topics range from general
research skills to specific issues in women's health.
Scholars are
required to submit periodic progress reports to the BIRCWH directors.
