Patient-Centered Pediatric Research Program

The objective PC-PReP is to provide advanced training for the highest caliber post-doctoral fellows, who will become leaders in community engaged research with children at high risk for health disparities and poor outcomes. Emphasis is placed on research that includes children with medical complexities from socially and economically disadvantaged groups. Answering multiple calls for workforce development in this area, the program provides interdisciplinary, translational, and state-of-the-art clinical research training for MD and PhD (or equivalent) post-doctoral fellows. The rationale is that scientists with a strong foundation in Biobehavioral and Health Services research are essential to: (a) improve our understanding of unique biological mechanisms and behavioral/ social determinants of health, (b) develop and evaluate treatments applicable to all individuals, and (c) disseminate evidence-based care to promote health equity in diverse populations across the lifespan.

Fellows learn the responsible conduct of research, as well as methods for the design and conduct of research related to a broad range of child health outcomes. Using these tools, they engage in programmatic research in their chosen area of specialization. Emphasis is placed on the development of new and innovative research questions, the dissemination of scientific findings, and the preparation of applications for extramural funding to provide a solid foundation for an independent research career.