Research Associates Program
ON DEMAND PROGRAM FOR PROFESSIONALS
The CRENC Research Associates Program is designed for professionals transitioning into advanced research roles or academia. This program offers an intensive experience to develop expertise in research methodology, data analysis, protocol development, and implementation science.
Level 3 - Advanced Training
For professionals with substantial experience in medical research.
Open year-round; program launches based on demand
Very limited places are available.
Program Highlights
Program Features
Advanced Research Skills
Gain proficiency in designing and managing research projects.
Protocol Development
Refine and submit research protocols in compliance with ethical guidelines.
Implementation Science
Learn to bridge research findings and practical applications for healthcare systems.
Networking and Collaboration
Connect with researchers, attend professional workshops, and engage with multidisciplinary teams.
Capstone Project
Deliver a complete research manuscript or protocol as the final program outcome.
Eligibility and Requirements
Application Requirements:
Early-career researchers, medical professionals, or PhD candidates seeking to transition into advanced research roles.
Prerequisites:
- Strong background in clinical research or health sciences.
- Proficiency in tools such as REDCap, R, or STATA.
- Demonstrated interest in academic research or public health projects.
Application Requirements:
- A strong CV and letter of motivation detailing your research interests and goals.
- A completed application form and supervisor approval (if applicable).
What You’ll Learn
Protocol Development:
- Gain a deep understanding of the National Ethics Committee (NEC) guidelines to ensure compliance with local and international ethical standards.
- Learn the step-by-step process of drafting, refining, and submitting research protocols for ethical clearance.
- Work closely with mentors to co-develop protocols tailored to specific research questions and public health priorities.
- Develop expertise in navigating the complexities of regulatory requirements and ensuring that protocols meet global ethical standards for clinical and public health research.
Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and Ethics
- Achieve certification in Good Clinical Practice (GCP) to understand the principles of ethical research and participant protection.
- Learn to handle sensitive processes such as reporting adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse events (SAEs) in research.
- Study national and international ethical laws and guidelines to ensure compliance in all stages of the research process.
- Develop confidence in addressing ethical dilemmas and ensuring the integrity of research practices.
Research Project Management
- Build skills to develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that guide project implementation and ensure consistency.
- Conduct site feasibility assessments to evaluate resources, infrastructure, and readiness for research activities.
- Learn stakeholder engagement strategies to foster collaboration with ethics committees, healthcare facilities, and research participants.
- Gain experience in budgeting, resource allocation, and timeline management to efficiently run research projects.
Data Management
- Use advanced tools like REDCap to design and manage data collection processes, ensuring high-quality and secure data entry.
- Master techniques for cleaning, validating, and preparing datasets for analysis, minimizing errors and ensuring reliability.
- Learn to develop and implement data quality control protocols to maintain accuracy throughout the research lifecycle.
- Explore strategies for data storage, backup, and security to comply with research standards.
Implementation Science
- Study and apply theoretical frameworks (such as RE-AIM or CFIR) to bridge the gap between research and practice.
- Develop practical strategies to translate research findings into actionable healthcare interventions, such as new policies or clinical guidelines.
- Learn to work with diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, clinicians, and patients, to build sustainable and scalable interventions.
- Gain experience in creating evaluation plans to measure the effectiveness and impact of implemented programs.
Scientific Writing and Publication
- Learn to craft concept sheets and detailed data analysis plans that provide clarity and direction for your research.
- Receive guidance on writing all sections of a manuscript, including introductions, methods, results, and discussions.
- Understand the peer-review process and how to prepare manuscripts for submission to high-impact journals.
- Gain experience in creating professional presentations to share findings at national and international conferences.
- Build confidence in defending your research in academic and professional settings.