During the first year of training, each fellow identifies a research mentor. Fellows may seek research opportunities across the entire university they are not restricted to investigators in the Section or Department. It is expected that a research mentor and project is identified before the end of the first year of training so they can begin their work at the start of their second year.
Also during the first year, the fellow selects a scholarship oversight committee (SOC). The SOC is charged with ensuring that the fellows’ research experiences are meaningful and productive. The SOC meets with the fellow and mentor once at the end of the first year, and every six months thereafter. At the SOC meetings, progress is reviewed, critiques and encouragement are given as needed, and any problems identified are addressed.
Fellows participate in weekly research meetings with their mentor where they present their research data and conclusions.
Annually, fellows present their research activities to all members of the section (Research in Progress). Fellows also present their ongoing research at the annual departmental research fair.