Program overview
Recent advances in the potential for developing both small molecule
and biotechnology based pharmacotherapy have increased the need for experts
in the clinical development, evaluation, and therapeutic use of these agents.
To help meet this need, the Warren Grant
Magnuson Clinical Center (CC) and the National
Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) have established a research
training program in clinical pharmacology at the National Institutes of
Health.
This program emphasizes the application of laboratory pharmacology,
biostatistics, pharmacokinetics, and chemistry to the study of drug action
in humans.
The Clinical Pharmacology Research Associate (ClinPRAT) Program is intended
for physicians who wish to acquire specialized clinical and laboratory
training in the pharmacological sciences. The goal of the program is
to develop a cadre of scientists capable of conducting both basic and
applied clinical pharmacology research. Individuals with this background
are needed to fill key positions in academic, industrial, and federal
research laboratories. Individuals interested in postdoctoral research
training in basic pharmacological sciences may refer to the Pharmacology
Research Associate (PRAT) Program that NIGMS also sponsors.
Recent graduate, Elizabeth S. Lowe, M.D., receives her ClinPRAT certificate
from training program director, Arthur J. Atkinson, Jr., M.D. Dr. Lowe is
currently Associate Director of Clinical Research at AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals.
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Training Opportunities
ClinPRAT fellows conduct research in one of the laboratories of the
National Institutes of Health (NIH). Clinical and laboratory research opportunities
are available in a wide range of scientific areas, including drug metabolism
and pharmacokinetics, neuroregulation and the biochemistry of neurotoxic
reactions, new approaches to pain management, and the development of new
anticancer, antiretroviral and antifungal drugs, vaccines, and gene therapy.
Fellows devote the majority of their time to clinical and laboratory
research. However, they also receive didactic
training in clinical research, principles of clinical pharmacology,
and biostatistics, and may participate as members of the Clinical Pharmacy
Rounding Teams in the NIH Clinical Center. Additionally, they are invited
to participate in a PRAT Seminar Series/Discussion Group.
Applicants
Candidates must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the United
States. Applicants must have an M.D. degree and, in general, have completed
three years of residency training, and be board eligible in a primary
medical specialty. The mathematical nature of the work in clinical pharmacology
makes imperative a working knowledge of calculus.
Applicants should request an application packet and use the forms provided
to submit the requested information. Completed applications must be
received by October 1 for appointments beginning in July of the following
year. Early applications also will be accepted.
Each candidate's qualifications are evaluated by the Clinical Pharmacology
Steering Committee. Selection is highly competitive and preference given
to applicants with outstanding potential. Considerations include academic
attainment and demonstrated research interest with emphasis on the candidate's prior training and
long-term career goals.
Preceptors and Mentors
Professional growth is stimulated through guidance by scientists at
the NIH. Applicants will receive a list of suggested
research preceptors and will be invited to visit the NIH campus for
interviews with prospective research preceptors. Preceptor selection is
arranged by mutual agreement. After entering the program, trainees also
will select a mentor who will have an advisory role distinct from that
of the research preceptor. In many cases, preceptor and mentoring relationships
will extend far beyond the formal training period.
Appointments
Appointments are made for three years. NIGMS makes positions available
for clinical pharmacology trainees to enter the program each year at
the beginning of July. Alternative starting dates may be negotiated
individually, following acceptance into the program.
The stipend is determined by the candidate's educational and professional
experience. In addition, there is a monthly allowance of $200 a month
to cover supplies, registration fees, and travel costs (travel up to
$1,000). Applicants may also qualify for a competitive General
Loan Repayment Program.
Applications
For additional information and application forms, contact:
Donna L. Shields, ClinPRAT Program Coordinator, NIH Clinical Center,
Room 1C227, 10 Center Drive, MSC 1165, Bethesda, MD 20892-1165
