Management and Business Principles for Scientists
The ASPIRE module in Management and Business Principles for Scientists provides PhD students and postdoctoral fellows with an introduction to fundamental business and management principles through didactic presentations and discussions and a group project. The first seven weeks consists of lectures and discussions emphasizing key concepts and tools relating to finance and accounting, human resource management, marketing, and operations. After a retreat featuring discussions with scientists who have pursued careers at the intersection of science and business, participants form teams and consult with a scientific core facility at Vanderbilt to develop a solution to a business problem faced by the core facility. During the project phase of the module, teams continue meeting with the instructor to learn practical project management and problem-solving strategies to employ in their project. The course culminates with teams synthesizing their solution in a 7-minute presentation to a team of judges who rate the presentation and proposed solution using a rubric.
1. Complete assigned readings and participate in discussions of case studies. 2. Attend the mid-course retreat with scientists who have pursued careers at the intersection of business and science. 3. Work with a team to meet with a VU research core facility and learn about a business problem faced by the facility. 4. As a team, use the practical project management and problem-solving strategies discussed in class to propose a solution to the business problem faced by the partner core facility. 5. Create and deliver a 7-minute presentation describing the proposed solution. 6. Attend all classes with no unexcused absences.
Clinical Laboratory Medicine: Applying Your PhD to Patient Care
The Clinical Laboratory Medicine module is an immersion opportunity for PhD students and postdoctoral fellows to learn about careers as medical directors of diagnostic laboratories, with particular emphasis on Clinical Microbiology and Clinical Chemistry/Toxicology, along with additional opportunities for exposure in Molecular Genetics and Cytogenetics.
1. Complete HIPAA training 2. Attend an introductory didactic session to participate in a discussion about the clinical laboratory medicine subspecialties and the career path to becoming a medical director of a diagnostic laboratory, including the board certification process and specialty fellowships. 3. Complete an externship, spending up to 2 hours per week for 5 weeks shadowing a medical director during laboratory bench rounds and participating in the services' Diagnostic Management Team, which provides consultative services to managing physicians.
Biomedical Research and the Media is an opportunity for biomedical PhD students and postdoctoral fellows to develop science communication skills and an understanding of the role of university Public/Media Affairs in communicating scientific and medical breakthroughs to the public. At the conclusion of the class, students will understand the process of interviewing one or more sources and writing a publishable news story on a biomedical research or health topic; understand the daily interactions between the local and national media and a medical center such as Vanderbilt that seeks to influence both public health and its national reputation via media relations; and understand the key role of social media in the modern media environment. Students will also have the opportunity to become more skilled at being interviewed and accurately conveying information, even in a challenging environment. Additionally, the students will have an understanding of some of the key differences in professional assumptions between media professionals and science professionals.
1. Complete readings of news and feature stories from contemporary sources and selected readings from the module textbook, _A Field Guide for Science Writers_ 2. Write an Aliquot (150 words) and a news enterprise piece suitable for publication in the VUMC Reporter (500-600 words). 3. Interview a current or former Vanderbilt graduate student, postdoctoral fellow, or faculty member and write one profile piece (500 words). 4. Participate in discussions with guest experts in science communication. 5. Attend all meetings with no unexcused absences.
Creating Effective Scientific Talks and Delivering Them with Confidence
The ASPIRE module, "Creating Effective Scientific Talks and Delivering Them with Confidence," helps graduate students and postdoctoral fellows learn strategies for engaging scientific audiences through maximally effective slide preparation and speaking techniques. The module includes practice exercises to help participants learn to control their speaking pace and articulation, and manage stress. Participants who wish to earn a badge will develop and present a 10-minute talk with optional filming and feedback. Participants may also request an optional additional meeting with the instructor to review the slides prior to the final presentation.
1. Learn the importance of tailoring a presentation to the audience and strategies for creating effective slide presentations. 2. Practice controlling speaking pace and articulating clearly. 3. Learn and practice breathing and postural strategies for managing stress. 4. Create or revise a 10-minute presentation about their research. 5. Deliver a 10-minute presentation about their research and receive feedback from peers and the instructor. 6. Attend all meetings with no unexcused absences.
The ASPIRE module, "EQ+IQ = Career Success" provides an overview of the concept of “Emotional Intelligence” and the role that EQ plays in professional success and satisfaction. Graduate students and postdoctoral fellow participants learn effective workplace communication strategies, teamwork, conflict resolution and leadership skills, and strategies for building professional relationships. The module uses Gallup’s Clifton StrengthsFinder assessment to help participants become aware of and craft a plan to maximize their professional strengths
1. Complete the Gallup StrengthsFinder assessment (or bring results from a previous assessment). 2. Participate in discussions and activities. 3. Attend all meetings with no unexcused absences.
The ASPIRE "Networking Pacing" Module prepares graduate students and postdoctoral fellows to make the most of networking at an upcoming professional conference, networking event, or informational interviewing. This 8-week module breaks down the process of networking into approachable steps and provides real-world examples. Topics include networking basics, etiquette, elevator pitches, LinkedIn, navigating conversations, event preparation, informational interviewing, virtual networking, and follow-up. The module culminates in a real-world exercise in networking- attendance at a conference or networking event or conducting an informational interview- where the tools and strategies learned are put into practice. participants coming together to discuss how their networking activity went, what they learned in the process, what successes they experienced, and to evaluate and provide group feedback about any challenging situations they may have encountered. The group will also talk about strategies for moving forward and further developing these new professional relationships.
1. Complete assigned readings and videos. 2. Develop an "elevator pitch" and practice with peers using a rubric. 3. Set 3-4 specific goals for networking. 4. Prepare for a conference, networking event, or informational interview by conducting background research on attendees, planning questions to ask, and sending an email in advance to arrange meeting times. 5. Build a LinkedIn page and receive feedback from peers and module instructor. 6. Learn strategies and etiquette for following up after a conference, networking event, or informational interview. 7. Attend all sessions with no unexcused absences.
In this ASPIRE module, experts from the Vanderbilt Writing Studio teach graduate and postdoctoral scientists to become more effective writers. Sessions focus on understanding reader expectations, foundational principles of argumentative structure, and writing cohesive paragraphs and sentences. A third session will be held that will consist of a hands-on workshop, working with consultants at the writing studio providing feedback on participants' work. The practical strategies taught in this module can be applied to all types of documents, from grant applications to peer-reviewed manuscripts.
1. Meet with a Writing Studio consultant for feedback on a document you have written. 2. Attend all module sessions.
In this ASPIRE module taught by a freelance science writer, graduate and postdoctoral trainees in the sciences develop greater skill, ease, and confidence in formal and informal science communication scenarios. Through practical exercises, participants gain experience speaking to and writing for a variety of audiences and exposure to best practices for effective communication of complex topics to nonspecialists.
1. Learn and apply principles of giving constructive feedback to writers. 2. Peer-review written documents created by peers during the module. 3. Develop and practice a short elevator pitch describing your research project. 4. Develop and deliver a 3-Minute-Thesis style oral presentation about your research project. 5. Write three different pieces that scientists might use to communicate about research with the public or policymakers: a "research highlight," an op-ed, and a policy memo. 6. Interview a scientist and write a profile piece about her or him. 7. Attend all sessions with no unexcused absences.
Introduction to the Principles and Practice of Clinical Research (NIH online course)
Introduction to the Principles and Practice of Clinical Research (IPPCR) is an online course sponsored and taught by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The course includes about 40 lectures and trains registrants on how to effectively and safely conduct clinical research. The course focuses on the spectrum of clinical research and the research process by highlighting biostatistical and epidemiologic methods, study design, protocol preparation, patient monitoring, quality assurance, ethical and legal issues, and much more. The ASPIRE IPPCR Badge is awarded to Vanderbilt graduate students and postdoctoral fellows who receive a Certificate of Completion for the course from the NIH. To earn the Certificate of Completion, participants must pass the online end-of-course exam administered by NIH and receive 75% or higher. Details about registering for the NIH course are available at the website at https://ocr.od.nih.gov/courses/ippcr.html.
1. Complete the online course Introduction to the Principles and Practice of Clinical Research sponsored by the National Institutes of Health. 2. Take the online end-of-course exam sponsored by the NIH and receive 75% or higher to earn a Certificate of Completion issued by the NIH. 3. File a copy of the NIH-issued Certificate of Completion with the ASPIRE program.
K-12 school districts are continually in need of qualified professionals to teach courses in all science and math content areas, and teachers are eligible for tenure after five years of teaching and have numerous opportunities for upward mobility in the school system. In this module, graduate and postdoctoral participants will gain an understanding of the inner workings of the middle and high school classrooms, including the policies and structures governing school districts in Tennessee, teaching and course development strategies appropriate for the middle and high school setting, qualities of effective educators, and an understanding of careers in the K-12 sector. Students will gain actual classroom experience through a volunteer placement a middle or high school classroom, and will have the opportunity to participate in a future certification program geared toward STEM professionals.
1. Complete "Protection of Minors" training sponsored by Vanderbilt University. 2. Learn about the secondary educational system and career pathways in the K-12 sector. 3. Understand how learning changes throughout childhood, what students can understand at each grade level, and how to serve the needs of diverse students in the classroom. 3. Learn teaching and course development strategies for the middle and high School level. 4. Observe and/or participate in learning activities at a local middle school or high school and reflect on classroom management strategies. 5. Attend all meetings with no unexcused absences.
Technology Commercialization Part A: Intellectual Property
This ASPIRE module is taught by the Vanderbilt Center for Technology Transfer and Commercialization. Commercialization of basic and applied research has become an increasingly important element of the mission of most US universities and academic medical centers. Commercialization of academic innovations enables the flow of resources to develop new and improved products for public benefit, contributes to local economic growth and creates new high value employment opportunities. The need for scientists to understand the fundamentals of technology protection and commercialization to be competitive for Government, foundation and industry funding is rapidly growing, and is a necessity for entrepreneurial researchers interested in working with technology-based new ventures. For those scientists interested in non-faculty academic careers, this course will also introduce individuals in the local area who have made the transition from science to technology transfer career.
1. Through sessions that combine lecture, discussion, and case studies, learn about the history of technology transfer, types of intellectual property, legislation that enables technology transfer, societal impact of academic inventions, the academic commercialization process, early stage product development, and career pathways for PhDs interested in careers in technology transfer. 2. Attend all meetings with no unexcused absences.
Technology Commercialization Part B: StartUp Company Focus
This ASPIRE module is taught by the Vanderbilt Center for Technology Transfer and Commercialization. Commercialization of basic and applied research has become an increasingly important element of the mission of most US universities and academic medical centers. Commercialization of academic innovations enables the flow of resources to develop new and improved products for public benefit, contributes to local economic growth and creates new high value employment opportunities. In this section of the module, participants will learn about the academic technology commercialization process, especially translational research and early stage product development. Academic entrepreneurs will join the class to provide case studies about the new ventures they have created, and participants will learn sources of funding available to academic researchers and entrepreneurs.
1. Through sessions that combine lecture, discussion, and case studies, learn about the academic technology commercialization process, how to determine the commercial feasibility of new innovations, and regulatory and financial considerations, including how new ventures are funded. 2. Attend all meetings with no unexcused absences.
This module introduces graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in the biomedical sciences to fundamentals of programming and data science. The module is taught by the Nashville Software School (nashvillesoftwareschool.com), a nonprofit corporation whose mission is to expand the technology workforce in middle Tennessee through hands-on training programs and mentorship. Participants learn data science tools and approaches including data prep, exploratory data analysis, data visualization, and machine learning to complete a data science project.
1. Complete a 4-hour online course from DataCamp prior to the first session. 2. Learn about the field of data science and career options for data scientists. 3. Learn to use Python and Jupyter Notebooks to conduct a data science project using publicly available data sets. 4. Share work and store projects in GitHub repositories. 5. Work in teams to conduct a data science project. While completing the project, participants will define and refine their question of interest, clean data, conduct exploratory data analysis, explore data visualization and annotating methods, and analyze data. 6. Demonstrate data storytelling through project presentation to peers and provide feedback to peers on their project presentations. 7. Attend all sessions with no unexcused absences.
Communication and Networking for Data Science
Communication skills are a key component of success in a data science career. Data science professionals need to be able to distill complex information into actionable takeaways for decision-makers or customers. In this ASPIRE module, participants will learn fundamental communication skills, as well as learn strategies for conveying their professional accomplishments to prospective employers.
1. Complete the Gallup StrengthsFinder assessment to learn about personal strengths (or bring results from a previous assessment to class). 2. Develop and practice an elevator pitch. 3. Create or refine a LinkedIn profile. 4. Create and deliver an elevator pitch and provide feedback to peers about their elevator pitches. 5. Attend a Meet-Up or other Networking Event with a local Data Science Group, or conduct an informational interview with a data scientist, to practice networking skills with local data scientists. 6. Discuss networking experience and learn strategies to follow-up with newly acquired contacts. 7. Conduct background research about at least one of the individuals and companies presenting a case session for the Data Science Case Sessions module. 8. Write a 1-page summary of the individual/company to share with the group. 9. Attend all sessions with no unexcused absences.
Professional data scientists from the Nashville area and around the country present Data Science Case Sessions about projects they have completed for their company. Where possible, Case Sessions are held off-site at the company or organization so participants can gain deeper insight into the work environment. Some Case Session presenters are alumni of VU PhD or postdoctoral programs in the biomedical sciences who also share their advice for successfully transitioning to a career in data science. Prior to the Case Sessions, each participant will do background research about one of the individuals/companies presenting a case session, and they will share their findings with the group in a 1-page summary. Through the Case Sessions, participants learn how data science is used in a variety of industries and companies.
Attend at least 50% of the Case Sessions and actively participate in discussions with presenters.
Maximizing Your Potential: Leading and Managing People, Projects, and Your Career
Maximizing Your Potential is an ASPIRE module designed to help second and third year graduate students jumpstart their research training. The module enhances self-awareness, fosters growth mindset, builds resiliency, provides practical communication strategies for working effectively with laboratory colleagues and in diverse team situations, and helps students learn strategies for making effective decisions. The module meets 8-10 times depending on availability of guest speakers.
1. Complete assigned readings, watch assigned videos, and participate in discussions of case studies. 2. Take the Gallup StrengthsFinder assessment (or bring results from a previous assessment) and complete related activities. 3. Map out research project using the project management strategies presented in the module. 4. Attend all classes with no unexcused absences.
The ASPIRE internship is an opportunity for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows to gain hands-on experience with a project in a professional work environment. Internships are offered in a range of career paths and organizations, including academia, nonprofits, and for-profit companies. ASPIRE internships are part-time (up to 8 hours per week) for varying duration according to the employer's needs.
1. Submit a resume or appropriate application document for the internship opportunity of interest. 2. Interview with, and be selected by, the internship host. 3. Complete the internship in good standing. 4. Submit an ASPIRE internship summary and evaluation form.
End of the pathway! To earn the Data Science Essentials badge, learners will complete the following: 1. “Introduction to Data Science” badge 2. “Communication and Networking for Data Science” badge OR "Networking Pacing" badge 3. "Data Science Case Sessions" badge
Data science is the field that applies scientific techniques and tools to analyze and interpret complex data, uncovering meaningful patterns and insights.
ASPIRE Job Search Series: Interviewing 101
This session helps participants learn about the basics of interviewing. Topics include how to prepare for various types of interviews, interview etiquette, and common interview questions you should be ready to answer when you go on the job market.
Students who complete this badge will: 1. Attend the 1-hour seminar about interviewing. 2. Be able to describe common interview types. 3. Learn principles of interview etiquette important to observe during job interviews in the U.S.. 4. Learn how to prepare for job interviews, including how to prepare to answer common interview questions.
ASPIRE Job Search Series: Behavioral Interviewing
This session helps participants learn about the basics of behavioral interviewing. we will de-mystify the behavioral interview and provide practical, easy-to-follow strategies for tackling behavioral interview questions with ease.
Students who complete this badge will: 1. Attend the 1-hour seminar about interviewing. 2. Be able to describe the S.T.A.R. strategy to answer behavioral questions. 3. Learn common competencies assessed in behavioral interviews. 4. Practice answering behavioral interview questions.
This experience involves an individualized session with an ASPIRE Team member who will review an individual’s CV, resume, LinkedIn profile or other professional document that is being used in a job search.
Students who complete this badge will: 1. Create a CV, resume, or other job search document. 2. Receive feedback on the document from a member of the ASPIRE team.
Completion of the ASPIRE Mock Interview Day pathway
Interviewing entails evaluating and interacting with job applicants via organized discussions to ascertain their fitness for a particular position or chance.
Behavioral Interviewing is a method where interviewers assess a candidate's suitability for a role by examining their past actions and behaviors as predictors of future performance.
Students who complete this pathway will have completed the following: 1. Attended at least two interviewing seminars and earned two of the following badges: - ASPIRE Job Search Series: Interviewing 101 badge - ASPIRE Job Search Series: Behavioral Interviewing badge - Decoding Your Story: Networking and Interview Success badge 2. Completed a document review with a member of the ASPIRE team, to earn the Job Search Document Review badge 3. Participated in ASPIRE Mock Interview Day to earn the Mock Interview Day badge.
This event will provide participants the opportunity to practice their interview skills with employers and alumni working in the field of industry, and receive valuable feedback. Participants will have up to 4 mock interviews, each lasting about 30 minutes.
Students who complete this badge will: 1. Attend the ASPIRE Mock Interview Day. 2. Participate in up to 4 mock interviews. 3. Receive feedback on their interviewing performance, and CV/resume
Decoding Your Story: Networking and Interview Success
This experience involves participating in StoryMason, a card game designed to help students learn how to engage people, gain confidence in telling your story and navigating professional conversations.
Students who complete this badge will: 1. Attend the Decoding Your Story: Networking and Interview Success event. 2. Participate in the StroyMason interview preparation game 3. Learn best ways to build their stories in order to improve their interviewing and networking skills
ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine: Introduction to Clinical Research Methods
The ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine (APMM) at Vanderbilt University is a unique training program for PhD students and postdoctoral fellows in the biomedical sciences. The APMM integrates research work with clinical, disease-based areas by providing experiential learning opportunities under the guidance of a clinical mentor and a basic science mentor. This badge is awarded upon completion of the "Introduction to Clinical Research Methods" course (1 credit hour) for credit or audit.
1. Complete the "Introduction to Clinical Research Methods" course. 2. This course will use didactic and case-based approaches to demonstrate practical tools to facilitate clinical research. 3. There are 12 topics taught over one-hour blocks by a basic scientist or physician-scientist with experience in clinical research. 4. Develop and present a proposal to incorporate a clinical or translational research component into their research project using the methods discussed in the course.
ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine: Advanced
A unique training program available to graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in the Biomedical Sciences at Vanderbilt University allowing for integration of thesis work with important clinical, disease-based areas. This program provides a supervised experience, including didactic and experiential courses, seminars and individual experiences, under the guidance of a clinical mentor and basic science mentor. This badge is awarded to learners who complete the three core components of the APMM program (including the 1-credit hour course, "Introduction to Clinical and Translational Research") plus an additional four credit hours of courses and a translational research project. Learners may complete credit hours either by registering for-credit or by auditing the course.
To earn the Advanced ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine badge, learners will complete the following: 1. "Symposia & Seminars" badge 2. "Clinical Contact Hours" badge 3. "Translational Courses: Introduction to Translational Research" badge 4. "Translational Courses: Human Biology and Disease" badge (3 credit hours) 5. **EITHER** "Translational Courses: Introduction to Clinical Research Methods" badge (available 2022 and after; 1 credit hour) **OR** "Translational Courses: Clinical Rounds for Basic Sciences" badge (discontinued after 2021; 1 credit hour) 6. "Translational Research Project" badge
ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine: Human Biology and Disease (2 credit hours)
The ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine (APMM) at Vanderbilt University is a unique training program for PhD students and postdoctoral fellows in the biomedical sciences. The APMM integrates research work with clinical, disease-based areas by providing experiential learning opportunities under the guidance of a clinical mentor and a basic science mentor. The complete "Human Biology and Disease" course comprises 15, 2-hour sessions discussing different human diseases and can be broken down into 1-credit hour blocks of 5 sessions each. This badge is awarded upon completion of 10 sessions (2-credit hours) for credit or audit.
1. Attend 10, 2-hour sessions of the Human Biology and Disease course. Each block covers an organ system and a disease and is taught by a physician or a physician-scientist involved in treating patients with this condition. The last session of each block is taught in a case report format in which instructors bring along a patient suffering from the disease being discussed. 2. Register with Medscape or UpToDate. 3. Write brief reports on each disease using Medscape and/or UpToDate as resources.
ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine: Human Biology and Disease (3 credit hours)
The ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine (APMM) at Vanderbilt University is a unique training program for PhD students and postdoctoral fellows in the biomedical sciences. The APMM integrates research work with clinical, disease-based areas by providing experiential learning opportunities under the guidance of a clinical mentor and a basic science mentor. The complete "Human Biology and Disease" course comprises 15, 2-hour sessions discussing different human diseases and can be broken down into 1-credit hour blocks of 5 sessions each. This badge is awarded upon completion of 15 sessions (3-credit hours) for credit or audit.
1. Attend 15, 2-hour sessions of the Human Biology and Disease course. Each block covers an organ system and a disease and is taught by a physician or a physician-scientist involved in treating patients with this condition. The last session of each block is taught in a case report format in which instructors bring along a patient suffering from the disease being discussed. 2. Register with Medscape or UpToDate. 3. Write brief reports on each disease using Medscape and/or UpToDate as resources.
ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine Symposia & Seminars
The ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine (APMM) at Vanderbilt University is a unique training program for PhD students and postdoctoral fellows in the biomedical sciences. The APMM integrates research work with clinical, disease-based areas by providing experiential learning opportunities under the guidance of a clinical mentor and a basic science mentor. This badge signifies participation in the required APMM Bench-to-Bedside Symposium series (monthly), the seminar series (monthly), and the program retreat (annually).
1. Participate in at least 70% of APMM Bench-to-Bedside Symposia and Seminars, which promote interactions between clinicians and basic sciences in the context of a particular disease. 2. Attend the annual retreat each year they are participating in the APMM program. 3. Present their work at least once at either a seminar or at a retreat.
ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine Clinical Contact Hours
The ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine (APMM) at Vanderbilt University is a unique training program for PhD students and postdoctoral fellows in the biomedical sciences. The APMM integrates research work with clinical, disease-based areas by providing experiential learning opportunities under the guidance of a clinical mentor and a basic science mentor. This badge is awarded upon completion of 30 hours of clinical contact hours.
Complete 30 clinical contact hours. Clinical contact hours may consist of any combination of: - patient contact with the clinical mentor and/or observing transitional care meetings or 'labs' meetings at Shade Tree Clinic (www.shadetreeclinic.org) - clinical case conferences for medical residents and fellows - simulated patient interviews in the Center for Experiential Learning and Assessment (CELA) at VU School of Medicine (https://cela.app.vumc.org/about-us)
ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine: Introduction to Clinical and Translational Research
The ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine (APMM) at Vanderbilt University is a unique training program for PhD students and postdoctoral fellows in the biomedical sciences. The APMM integrates research work with clinical, disease-based areas by providing experiential learning opportunities under the guidance of a clinical mentor and a basic science mentor. This badge is awarded upon completion of the "Introduction to Clinical and Translational Research" course (IGP 8002-17, 1 credit hour), for credit or audit.
1. Complete the "Introduction to Clinical and Translational Research" course that provides a broad introduction to the principles and challenges of human subjects research. 2. Work with a small team of students to develop a presentation based on a scientific journal article featuring clinical or translational research. 3. Write journal article reports about the presentations given by other student teams. 4. Complete pre-assigned readings, participate in group discussions, and write one-page summaries of group discussions.
A unique training program available to graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in the Biomedical Sciences at Vanderbilt University allowing for integration of thesis work with important clinical, disease-based areas. This program provides a supervised experience, including didactic and experiential courses, seminars and individual experiences, under the guidance of a clinical mentor and basic science mentor. This badge is awarded to learners who complete the three core components of the APMM program, including the 1-credit hour course, "Introduction to Clinical and Translational Research."
To earn the Core ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine badge, learners will complete the following: 1. "Symposia & Seminars" badge 2. "Clinical Contact Hours" badge 3. "Translational Courses: Introduction to Clinical and Translational Research" badge
ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine: Intermediate
A unique training program available to graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in the Biomedical Sciences at Vanderbilt University allowing for integration of thesis work with important clinical, disease-based areas. This program provides a supervised experience, including didactic and experiential courses, seminars and individual experiences, under the guidance of a clinical mentor and basic science mentor. This badge is awarded to learners who complete the three core components of the APMM program (including the 1-credit hour course, "Introduction to Clinical and Translational Research") plus an additional 2 credit hours of coursework.
To earn the Intermediate ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine badge, learners will complete the following: 1. "Symposia & Seminars" badge 2. "Clinical Contact Hours" badge 3. "Translational Courses: Introduction to Translational Research" badge 4. Two additional credit hours of coursework badges, selected from some combination of the following: - "Translational Courses: Human Biology and Disease" badge (2 credit hours) - "Translational Courses: Human Biology and Disease" badge (1 credit hour) - "Translational Courses: Introduction to Clinical Research Methods" badge (available 2022 and after; 1 credit hour) - "Translational Courses: Clinical Rounds for Basic Sciences" badge (discontinued after 2021; 1 credit hour)
ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine: Clinical Rounds for Basic Scientists
The ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine (APMM) at Vanderbilt University is a unique training program for PhD students and postdoctoral fellows in the biomedical sciences. The APMM integrates research work with clinical, disease-based areas by providing experiential learning opportunities under the guidance of a clinical mentor and a basic science mentor. This badge is awarded upon completion of the "Clinical Rounds for Basic Scientists" course (1 credit hour) for credit or audit. (Course discontinued after 2021.)
1. Complete the "Clinical Rounds for Basic Scientists" course in which clinical and basic scientists share their perspectives on how they approach clinical care and research in patients with common clinical problems. Sessions will incorporate patient interviews and case reports and will address disease pathophysiology, treatments, and research. 2. Complete HIPAA training and certification. 3. Complete background readings on each clinical condition and write brief summaries about each reading. 4. Participate in class discussions.
ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine: Human Biology and Disease (1 credit hour)
The ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine (APMM) at Vanderbilt University is a unique training program for PhD students and postdoctoral fellows in the biomedical sciences. The APMM integrates research work with clinical, disease-based areas by providing experiential learning opportunities under the guidance of a clinical mentor and a basic science mentor. The complete "Human Biology and Disease" course comprises 15, 2-hour sessions discussing different human diseases and can be broken down into 1-credit hour blocks of 5 sessions each. This badge is awarded upon completion of 5 sessions (1-credit hour) for credit or audit.
1. Attend 5, 2-hour sessions of the Human Biology and Disease course. Each block covers an organ system and a disease and is taught by a physician or a physician-scientist involved in treating patients with this condition. The last session of each block is taught in a case report format in which instructors bring along a patient suffering from the disease being discussed. 2. Register with Medscape or UpToDate. 3. Write brief reports on each disease using Medscape and/or UpToDate as resources.
BRET Full-Day Responsible Conduct of Research Training
This badge represents participation in a full day (9 hour) symposium on all aspects of RCR as defined by the ORI.
The earner of this badge has completed a full day (9 hour) symposium on all aspects of RCR as defined by the ORI.
ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine: Translational Research Project
The ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine (APMM) at Vanderbilt University is a unique training program for PhD students and postdoctoral fellows in the biomedical sciences. The APMM integrates research work with clinical, disease-based areas by providing experiential learning opportunities under the guidance of a clinical mentor and a basic science mentor. This badge is awarded upon completion of a Translational Research Project.
1. Meet with the instructor of the Introduction to Clinical Research Methods course to develop and execute a translational research project. 2. Present the results of the translational research project at a Bench-to-Bedside seminar or at the annual program retreat; this presentation is in addition to the presentation required to earn the Seminars & Symposia badge.
The ASPIRE Career Architect Module is designed to help Biomedical graduate students and postdoctoral fellows develop skills to navigate their career exploration endeavors. By using the principles and tools from the book "Designing Your Life" by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans, and the Gallup StrengthsFinder Assessment, graduate students will learn more about where they are starting from–what they value, how they view work, what their strengths are, and then utilize tools introduced through the module to help give them direction and build their confidence in their career decision making.
1. Complete the Gallup StrengthsFinder assessment to learn about personal strengths (or bring results from a previous assessment to class). 2. Complete all assigned Design Your Life readings and participate in in-class/Brightspace activities and discussions 3. Complete a workview/lifeview write up 4. Develop an Odyssey Plan 5. Review and complete a writeup on 3 Beyond the Lab episodes 6. Conduct an informational interview 7. Attend the Annual ASPIRE Career Symposium and complete a writeup 8. Attend all classes with no unexcused absences.
A unique training program available to graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in the Biomedical Sciences at Vanderbilt University allowing for integration of thesis work with important clinical, disease-based areas. This program provides a supervised experience, including didactic and experiential courses, seminars and individual experiences, under the guidance of a clinical mentor and basic science mentor. This badge is awarded to learners who complete the three core components of the APMM program (including the 1-credit hour course, "Introduction to Clinical and Translational Research") plus an additional four credit hours of courses. Learners may complete credit hours either by registering for-credit or by auditing the course.
To earn the Advanced ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine badge, learners will complete the following: 1. "Symposia & Seminars" badge 2. "Clinical Contact Hours" badge 3. "Translational Courses: Introduction to Translational Research" badge 4. "Translational Courses: Human Biology and Disease" badge (3 credit hours) 5. **EITHER** "Translational Courses: Introduction to Clinical Research Methods" badge (available 2022 and after; 1 credit hour) **OR** "Translational Courses: Clinical Rounds for Basic Sciences" badge (discontinued after 2021; 1 credit hour)
1. Complete the Gallup StrengthsFinder assessment to learn about personal strengths (or bring results from a previous assessment to class). 2. Complete all assigned Design Your Life readings and participate in in-class/Brightspace activities and discussions 3. Complete a workview/lifeview write up 4. Develop an Odyssey Plan 5. Review and complete a writeup on 3 Beyond the Lab episodes 6. Conduct an informational interview 8. Attend all classes with no unexcused absences.
ASPIRE Job Search Series: Resumes/Industry CVs
This session helps participants learn about the basics of CVs and résumés. Topics include when to use one or the other, strategies for tailoring your résumé for a specific position, and tips for clearly and concisely presenting your professional skills and accomplishments.
Students who complete this badge will: 1. Attend the 1-hour seminar about resumes and industry CVs. 2. Be able to describe the basics of each document. 3. Learn how to prepare how to prepare and tailor these documents for specific positions. 4. Learn tips on how to present your skills and accomplishments.
Spilling the tea with Biopharma Recruiters
This event will provide participants the opportunity to learn from biopharma recruiters about what it means to use a recruiter in a job search, how recruiters operate and work with companies looking for PhD level job candidates, and learn helpful tips and advice for preparing for the interview process.
Students who complete this badge will: 1. Attend the recruiter Q&A event 2. Learn the ins and outs of working with a recruiter 3. Learn tips for interview preparedness and the job search process.
Completion of the ASPIRE Mock Interview Day 2024 pathway
Students who complete this pathway will have completed the following: 1. Attended at least two interviewing seminars and earned two of the following badges: - ASPIRE Job Search Series: Resumes/Industry CVs - ASPIRE Job Search Series: Interviewing 101 badge - ASPIRE Job Search Series: Behavioral Interviewing badge 2. Attended the ASPIRE Biopharma Recruiter Q&A event 3. Completed a document review with a member of the ASPIRE team, to earn the Job Search Document Review badge 4. Participated in ASPIRE Mock Interview Day to earn the Mock Interview Day badge.
The Story Behind Effective Science Communication
Science communication is the backbone that enables us scientists to do and share what we love. Whether your future career includes grant writing, affecting policy, or getting kids excited about science, the ability to effectively communicate science is essential. This module will explore the key components of compelling scientific communication. It is ideal for trainees interested in: Careers in scientific outreach Applying for grant funding Being involved in science policy Teaching careers Improving their overall presentation skills The ability to actually explain what you do to family and friends This ASPIRE module will be very interactive; active participation will be expected from each student, in each class. By the end of the module, students will have practiced multiple soft skills. Deliverables, including a three-minute “elevator pitch,” and a visual abstract, will also be created and cultivated throughout the course.
1. Attend in all 4 sessions of the module with no unexcused absences. 2. Be able to explain your science in at least 3 different “real life” settings 3. Create a visual abstract 4. Prepare a 3-minute, 1-slide talk about your science
ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine: Advanced with Translational Research Project