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School of Medicine Virginia Commonwealth University VCU Medical Center

Building Interdisciplinary Research Careers
in Women’s Health (BIRCWH)

Curriculum

Two physicians in the lab

BIRCWH Scholars are expected to commit 75 percent of their time to research on a project related to the broad area of women’s health that they have proposed and designed. Scholars should meet with their department chairs prior to applying for the BIRCWH program to ensure this time commitment is guaranteed.

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 as recommended by the BIRCWH directors. The curriculum will be tailored to meet the Scholars’ experiences and academic background. This commitment to meeting individual needs is strengthened through the establishment of supportive research teams and coaches. The curriculum will include:

  • Didactic course work
  • Attendance at selected clinical/basic research seminars
  • Attendance at the BIRCWH luncheon seminar series
  • Attendance at selected journal clubs, seminars and training programs
  • Participation in experiential initiatives related to compliance and regulatory agencies
  • Attendance at career development and grant workshops
  • Completion of a mentored research project and submission of a proposal to a nationally recognized funding agency

Scholars are required to submit periodic progress reports to the BIRCWH directors.