Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Could you please clarify the eligibility criteria?

Answer: Firstly, we are giving preference to individuals who already have their PhD or MD (or equivalent degrees) and have at least two years of subsequent research experience. Applicants should not yet achieved tenure ranked positions (i.e., have tenure) at their institution.  While we will consider and may even accept "exceptional" applicants who do not met these criteria, priority will go to those who do. Secondly, applicants must be US citizens or non-citizens with permanent residence status.

Beyond these eligibility criteria, we are seeking people who have some demonstrated research experience and who can benefit from the training. In addition, we will take into account diversity of research interests, disciplines, geography, race, and gender in making final decisions. The primary basis is, however, on demonstrated research experience and promise for future research contributions.

Answer: Your reference does not have to be in the same area of research, but should be someone who is familiar with you and your research interests and skills. Your reference should be able to speak to research career goals and your promise for making future contributions. You are free to ask whomever you believe can best speak to your current and potential research achievements.

Answer: Yes. However, the course is primarily for non-NIH researchers. Consequently, priority will be given to extramural scientists over intramural NIH scientists or Health Scientist Administrators. If accepted, NIH employees would be expected to attend all sessions of the course.

Answer: No. Due to space limitations, the course is open only to US citizens or non-citizen nationals of the United States, who must have been lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence (i.e., possess a currently valid Alien Registration Receipt Card I-551, or other legal verification of such status).

Question: How many people will be accepted for the course?

Answer: 36.

Question: Can more than one person from an organization apply? How will you decide among multiple applicants from the same institution?

Answer: Yes. We will evaluate each application on its own merits. Assuming that in the end we have more than 36 meritorious applications, we will then take into account other criteria such as disciplinary, geographical, and institutional diversity. We will also follow NIHÍs guidelines in promoting training for underrepresented minorities, women, and handicapped individuals.

Question: If I am accepted, can I bring my spouse and/or children?

Answer: Yes, but at your own expense. Please read the information posted at http://obssr.od.nih.gov/Conf_Wkshp/RCT/Airlie.htm for these costs and other circumstances that may influence your decision about bringing guests.

Question: Will this course be offered again?

Answer: We intend to offer this course annually through 2007.

Question: Can you send me the course materials (e.g., bibliography) if I am unable to attend?

Answer: We plan to make available on the HomePage as much of the course materials as soon as  possible. We will announce via the listserv whenever they are posted. Material from the 2001 and 2002 is now available.  2003 Course materials will be posted in the next several weeks..