Research

The majority of the second and third year are dedicated to either clinical or laboratory research activities. Some clinical responsibilities exist as listed above.

Four weeks of the first year are spent rotating through a variety of research laboratories and meeting with investigators so the trainee can become familiar with current projects in order to make a decision about a research project and chose a research mentor.
Trainees in Hematology/Oncology can select a basic science or translational research project through the Children's National Research Institute, in particular the Center for Cancer and Immunology Research.
Opportunities exist for research outside of Children’s National Hospital.
Trainees may pursue clinical research endeavors through supervision from one of our attending physicians.

Through this program and our partnership with the George Washington University there are several opportunities for our fellows:

Master of Science in Health Sciences (MSHS) in Clinical and Translational Research
T32 Training Program in Hematology
T32 Training program in Oncology based at George Washington University

Research Education Areas of Focus

Laboratory techniques taught by experienced personnel until the trainee has achieved independence in the techniques.
Experimental design and data collection/analysis: The trainee presents their proposal (see above) at a Center-wide meeting where constructive feedback is given. Updates are presented during the weekly lab meetings where feedback and instructions are given.
Scientific communications: Oral presentations to the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders are required on an annual basis. Fellows are encouraged to submit abstracts for oral or poster presentations at both local and national meetings. They also are encouraged to apply for in-house fellows' grants or external funding, which provide valuable early experience in grant writing.