Purpose This program is designed to identify and develop promising student researchers who intend to pursue careers in patient-oriented research, but who may not pursue formal graduate education (i.e. may not pursue Ph.D. doctoral training).
Scope At least five students will be matched each year with senior mentors and primary research mentors (junior mentors) to work on specific patient-oriented research projects. A list of some potential mentors and their departmental affiliations can be found here. Formal coursework is offered through the UT Southwestern K-30 program and the newly created Department of Clinical Sciences. Graduate certification of proficiency in clinical research is available through the Department of Clinical Sciences.
Activities The activities of the Doris Duke Fellows are numerous, and consist of formal didactic coursework, a variety of formal lectures and symposia available via the Department of Clinical Sciences. In addition, the students participate in twice-monthly lunch symposia in which the Fellows present their work to their peers and to their mentors. These meetings alternate with research conferences that are held in conjunction with fellows and faculty enrolled in the didactic programs in the Department of Clinical Sciences, including participants in the NIH funded CTSA Clinical Scholars program. A listing of the current Doris Duke Fellows conference schedule can be found here.
Timing Groups of students have been selected each year since 2001. Our eighth group of fellows has now arrived on the UT Southwestern campus and has begun their 2008-2009 fellowships. A listing of the current and past groups of University of Texas Southwestern Doris Duke Clinical Research Fellows and their projects can be found here.
Applications Applications for the ninth fellowship class (2009-2010) should be received by January 15, 2009. First decisions will be rendered beginning March 20, 2009; the deadline for acceptances will be April 3, 2009. Students may apply to more than one institution. A list of participating institutions can be found on the Doris Duke Foundation website.
Support For 2009-2010, a stipend of $ 27,000 and health insurance will be provided for the duration of a one year fellowship. Funds will also be provided for continuation of research work, additional clinical research training, and travel to clinical research meetings following completion of the fellowship.
Eligibility Requirements Students should have completed two or more years of medical school prior to beginning their fellowship year. Students enrolled in and in good standing at any accredited U.S. medical school are eligible. Limited travel funds may be available for medical students from other medical schools for interviews. Formal written consent of the respective medical school Dean is required.
Selection Criteria A completed application, official medical school transcript, and two letters of recommendation will be required for consideration. The selection committee will take into account a record of academic excellence, the applicant's personal statement, and the quality of the letters of support. While prior research experience is desirable, it is not required.
Application Forms The application process is handled centrally through the Doris Duke Program offices. Instructions for the completion of application forms can be obtained from the Doris Duke Foundation website. The deadline for the receipt of completed applications is January 15, 2009. Please direct any inquiries regarding the UT Southwestern program to:
Michael J. McPhaul, MD
Associate Dean for Medical Student Research
Doris Duke Clinical Research Fellowship Program for Medical Students
The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas
5323 Harry Hines Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75390-8857
Phone: (214)-648-3465
Fax: (214)-648-8917
