Foundations of Clinical Research

Program Overview

The Foundations of Clinical Research program is built on the principle that comprehensive training in clinical research is essential for professional growth in the health care field. This training equips clinicians with the tools to become independent investigators and enhances their ability to advance in their careers by deepening their understanding of research evidence. Foundations of Clinical Research is tailored for early career medical professionals with little to no experience in interventional or observational studies. 

The primary objective of the Foundations of Clinical Research program is to prepare the next generation of researchers with the critical competencies necessary to evaluate evidence, understand and utilize biostatistics, perform statistical analyses, and embark on their clinical research careers. We strive to ensure that participants develop a robust understanding of designing, implementing, analyzing, and interpreting clinical research studies.

Deadlines

• Early Application Deadline: June 4, 2025
• Final Application Deadline: August 6, 2025

Fees

• Early Deadline Program Fee: $7,900
• Program Fee: $8,900

View Admissions & Fees for more information.

Program Format

This program includes participation in three live virtual workshops. In addition, learners should plan to dedicate an average of 7–10 hours per week to coursework, which involves attending mandatory symposia, tutorials, Stata sessions, and seminars, as well as completing individual assignments.

Live Virtual Workshop Dates

Workshop 1: September 6-7, 2025 | Live Virtual

Workshop 2: January 31-February 1, 2026 | Live Virtual

Workshop 3 & Graduation: April 25-26, 2026 | Live Virtual

Program Objectives

After completing this program, learners will be able to: 

• Demonstrate and apply the foundational concepts of biostatistics and epidemiology
• Develop research questions, formulate testable hypotheses, and design clinical research studies
• Acquire the skills needed to present clinical research effectively
• Critically evaluate medical literature and synthesize key statistical analyses using Stata software
• Assess the ethical principles pertinent to clinical research
   

Benefits

Upon fulfilling the Foundations of Clinical Research program requirements, you will receive a Certificate of Completion. You also will become an Associate Member of the Harvard Medical School and Harvard University Alumni Associations and will be invited to attend Foundations of Clinical Research program alumni events throughout the year.

The Foundations of Clinical Research program provides the essential skill sets and fundamental knowledge required to begin or expand your clinical research career. Our scholars build a strong foundation in the fundamentals of clinical research, putting them on the pathway to take advanced courses that hone these skills.

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