Training the next generation of health researchers

Recognizing the shortage of public health research professionals in the country, the George Institute for Global Health, India will organize a training program aimed at increasing the research capacity of early and mid-career health researchers with a particular focus on public health research methods.

Called “Clinical Research Training 2015”, this is part of the institution’s overall objective of contributing to the development of public health research capacity in India.

"Given that public health schools are few in India and there is a huge need of public health research, there is a need to develop research capacity amongst clinicians and other health workers, which can impact public health," said Dr Pallab Maulik, Deputy Director and Head of Research and Development at the George Institute for Global Health.

Public health research entails having a comprehensive knowledge about many aspects of research – epidemiology, biostatistics, health economics, and qualitative research, besides specific knowledge about diseases. One need not be an expert in every aspect, but definitely one needs to have basic concepts about each and an awareness of the need for each aspect. For example, a clinician may know his area of expertise, viz.  Mental health but he or she also needs to have an idea about the other core public health research areas outlined above to develop a project in collaboration with key public health specialists.

"The aim of this academic program is to provide that basic, but yet comprehensive awareness about key areas of public health research and is aimed towards clinicians and allied health researchers working in the area of public health," Dr. Maulik added.

The shortage of public health research professionals in this country can be met either by training existing health workers in public health research methods by providing brief outlines and conceptual knowledge about public health research, as is the goal of the training program, or by giving regular formal public health training as part of definite public health degree courses.

The training will run from October 29 to November 2, 2015.  Topics covered in the training include epidemiology, biostatistics, qualitative research, health economics, research funding and management, and career development. There is a fee of Rs. 6,000 to cover the basic costs and the last date for registration is October 11, 2015.  

The teaching faculty for this symposium is comprised of experienced international and local researchers from The George Institute India, The George Institute, Sydney, University of Sydney and the University of Hyderabad.

Attendance of the full symposium will provide participants with a broad practical understanding of key elements of clinical and public health research, as well as some helpful tips on developing a career in these areas. A certificate of completion will be provided to attendees.

Download the Clinical Research Training brochure (PDF 543KB)