Genetic counselors (GCs) are increasingly in demand as valued members of genomic medicine research teams. However, holistic training for GCs that incorporates education in genetics and genomics and experiences in clinical practice are limited, and learning opportunities devoted to research, and research opportunities for GCs specific to genomic medicine are rare. As research into genomic medicine expands across clinical specialties and in different settings (academia, industry, government), the need for more GCs in research will continue to grow. Genomic medicine research spans a wide range including clinical discovery and validation, implementation science, health services research, and ethical/legal/social implications (ELSI). We will leverage our existing T32 Post-doctoral Program in Genomic Medicine Research to address these gaps for GCs and to provide them with a training opportunity to acquire or boost their knowledge and experience in genomic medicine research. Specifically we will utilize the organization and research programs in our successful post-doctoral genomic medicine T32 training program and will incorporate many features including didactic learning, research, and career development for GCs. The goals of the training program are to impart trainees with specific knowledge and skills in genomic medicine research, and to further development of trainees to become effective members of a research team. Metrics of success will include attainment of a position in a research setting, pursuit of further training towards a research position, publications, and inclusion as key personnel on grant proposals. We are extraordinarily well-positioned to immediately expand our program to include GCs to prepare the next generation of researchers in genomic medicine.
The purpose of this grant is to provide a research training experience for genetic counselors. This training program will provide an opportunity for genetic counselors to gain the knowledge and skills through a hands-on training opportunity with formal and informal learning to prepare them to work as a member of genomic medicine research teams.
| Stingl, Cory; Cardinale, Kathleen; Van Mater, Heather (2018) An Update on the Treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Encephalitis. Curr Treatm Opt Rheumatol 4:14-28 |
