The Aberdeen Summer Research Studentships
The School of Medicine & Dentistry has introduced an exciting new scheme for medical students in first and second year. Each year we will offer four summer research studentships lasting eight weeks. The objective is to give the successful candidates an opportunity to participate in an active research programme under the mentorship of a senior clinical academic within the School. Students will be offered a chance to learn a variety of research techniques and will have a small project to accomplish during the summer. There will also be heavy emphasis on clinical mentorship and an opportunity to participate in patient care on wards. The idea is to demonstrate how research is an essential part of understanding human disease and improving health care. There are several senior clinical academics who are keen to mentor students on this programme.
In the summer of 2010, we had 12 second year and 4 first year medical students who participated in the ASRS scheme. The placements covered a variety of medical specialties and different types of research including laboratory, clinical, public health and primary care. The experience was outstanding for both students and mentors and this highlighted the value of the scheme. In 2011 we had another 16 students on this scheme and all reported on their exciting experience at our annual ASRS evening in November 2011. Four prizes were awarded to the best presentations.
We have just concluded recruitment for the summer of 2012. A total of 29 students from first and second year will be undertaking research projects this summer in addition to enjoying a full range of clinical exposure at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and Raigmore Hosiptal in Inverness.
Anyone interested is welcome to discuss the programme with
Professor Emad El-Omar (e.el-omar@abdn.ac.uk).