Monash Launches Translational PhD Program

Monash University has launched a graduate program focused on training candidates for careers in translational research.

AsianScientist (Aug. 5, 2015) – Monash University has launched a new program focused on preparing graduates to conduct urgently needed translational research. The first of its kind to be offered in Australia, the program aims at equipping students with the skills to find post-doctoral careers in industry or regulatory affairs.

“Our motivation for establishing the program centered on three core tenets: the increasing importance of translational research at both government and community level; the lack of specific training in translational research for our post-graduate students; and the ever shrinking career opportunities offered by government-based fellowship schemes in Australia,” said Professor Stephen M. Jane, head, of the Central Clinical School at Monash University.

“The courses have been specifically designed to meet an emerging market need for scientists and clinicians to be trained in the development of basic research findings through commercial­ization and regulation of therapeutic products in multi­disciplinary environments.”

In partnership with associated health services and research institutes, Monash’s three clinical schools (Central, Eastern Health and Clinical Sciences) are offering the PhD program in translational research.

“The PhD program involves all members of Monash Partners as educational facilitators for a ‘virtual’ school of research translation integrating the three pillars: clinical services, research and education,” Jane added.

In addition, the graduate certificate program will train students in translational research and clinical trials methodology. Designed for healthcare professionals and biomedical scientists, the course provides basic foundations for discipline-specific laboratory research questions and how these can be applied to broader clinical applications.

“These new graduate programs will further the career development of candidates by exposing them to multidisciplinary approaches to challenging global health problems, establish interdisciplinary working of clinicians and scientists, while also giving them access to cutting-edge technologies and collaborative industry engagement,” Jane said.

For both the graduate certificate and PhD programs, there will be compulsory course work in the areas of biostatistics, clinical trials, small molecule development, animal models of human disease, commercialization and intellectual property management.

Click here to find out more about the program.

———

Source: Monash University.
Disclaimer: This article does not necessarily reflect the views of AsianScientist or its staff.

Asian Scientist Magazine is an award-winning science and technology magazine that highlights R&D news stories from Asia to a global audience. The magazine is published by Singapore-headquartered Wildtype Media Group.

Related Stories from Asian Scientist