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Foundations of Clinical Research

The Foundations of Clinical Research program is rooted in the belief that clinical research training is critical to professional development in health care. Clinical research training not only creates potential independent investigators, but also enables clinicians to advance their careers through a greater understanding of research evidence.

Designed to provide learners with the foundational knowledge and skill sets required to produce high-quality clinical research, our program will lay the fundamental groundwork in epidemiology and biostatistics required for a multifaceted career in clinical research.


Workshop Dates | Live Virtual
Workshop 1:  September 6-7, 2025
Workshop 2: January 31-February 1, 2026

Workshop 3 and Graduation: April 25-26, 2026
 
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Program Objectives

  • Demonstrate a clear understanding of the foundational concepts of biostatistics and epidemiology
  • Apply the core concepts of biostatistics and epidemiology
  • Develop a research question and formulate a testable hypothesis
  • Design and begin to implement a clinical research study
  • Cultivate the skills required to present a clinical research study
  • Critically evaluate the research findings in medical literature
  • Synthesize crucial statistical analyses using Stata software
  • Evaluate the ethical principles relevant to clinical research
  • Enroll in Optional Advanced learning modules (Scientific Writing, Advanced Stata, Machine Learning)

Scholars who achieve the program objectives will be awarded a Certificate of Completion at the end of the program. 
 

Innovative Learning Model

A six-month virtual program, Foundations of Clinical Research combines online curriculum emphasizes real-time, skill-based learning. This blended-learning approach includes participation in three live-virtual workshops. In addition, learners should plan to dedicate an average of 7-10 hours per week to coursework, which involves attending mandatory symposia, training tutorials, seminars, and completing capstone-related assignments. 
Program Learning Model

Program Director

Jamie M. Robertson

Jamie Robertson, PhD, MPH

Senior Research Scientist, Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Assistant Professor of Surgery, Harvard Medical School
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Email:  learn@hms.harvard.edu
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