HMS and HSDM students conduct independent research projects, and thus the CHS allows these students to serve as Principal Investigators on their own studies. Student research must meet minimal risk exemption or expedited review criteria (though, some minimal risk studies may require full CHS review depending on the research topic, activities, population and/or location). HMS and HSDM students are subject to the same policies, guidelines and regulations as the Faculty of Medicine, as well as some additional requirements, such as mentors or faculty advisors.

Students conducting their own research projects for which they either receive funding through or from HMS or HSDM, or students who receive no funding but are working as an "agent" of HMS or HSDM, must receive approval from the CHS. Additionally, students who receive funding through or from HMS or HSDM to work as personnel on a research project must receive approval from the CHS. Please see the required documentation for each of these categories.

Mentors

Each student must have at least one faculty mentor or faculty advisor and one mentor at the site where the research is taking place. The faculty mentor should be available to assist the student in developing his/her protocol, CHS application and study materials. The site mentor should be available to assist the student with any local/institutional approvals, and be available while the study is being conducted, in the event that problems or questions arise.

HSDM Faculty Advisors

The HSDM Office of Research assigns students to Faculty Advisors who are responsible for working with students to ensure they are meeting their research requirements, selecting appropriate projects and mentors, and offering guidance as needed throughout their program. The HSDM Office of Research has a database of mentors that have worked with HSDM students in the past and will keep this resource on file. There is a HSDM Pre-Doctorate Advisory Committee which oversees the research advisor program.

Institutional IRB Approvals

Students are required to obtain all appropriate HMS/HSDM institutional and site approvals (domestic or international) before commencing research activities.

Deadline for submissions

Eight weeks prior to proposed protocol implementation. Summer research proposals are due by April 1st of every year.

Please Note: Submit all components of the application together at one time.

Updated: 22-Oct-2009