FAQ

Program Objectives

What is the goal of the HIGH IRI program?

The HIGH-IRI seeks to contribute to the scientific development of scholars developing a career in implementation research through training, mentorship and enhancing professional networks in this field. The program seeks to complement, not replace, the primary mentoring relationships in your home institution. Because implementation research is a relatively new field, investigators seeking to grow in this area may not have a critical mass of mentorship or peer support in their home institutions. The HIGH IRI seeks to fill this gap.

What are the benefits of participating in HIGH-IRI?

We hope to delivery three tangible benefits. First, the two weeks of in-residence training in St. Louis will focus on conveying rigorous, up-to-date, and leading edge concepts in implementation research that will enable trainees to develop a strong knowledge of the perspectives that can be immediately applied to research projects and grant applications. Second, development of a mentoring relationship with one of the faculty of the HIGH IRI will enlarge your professional network, offer additional expert perspectives on your projects, to complement existing mentoring resources. Third, participation will build long-lasting relationships that can help support professional and growth even beyond the program.

Is HIGH-IRI a post-doctoral fellowship?

No. This program does not confer an appointment or position with Washington University in St. Louis. We offer additional, complementary training for individuals who are in post-doctoral programs or who hold faculty positions at the Assistant Professor level or equivalent.

Application Process

Is this a rolling admissions program?

There is a hard deadline for complete applications for each application cycle. Please find the program application information on the “Apply” page.

How many letter of reference should I submit with my application?

You will submit (2) reference letters total: 1 letter of support from your primary mentor at your home institution & 1 additional letter of recommendation from another mentor or supervisor that can speak to your potential as an investigator.

Who should the Letter of Recommendation come from?

We strongly suggested the letter of recommendation come from a mentor or supervisor who can speak to your potential as an investigator in implementation research related to infectious diseases as well as the ways in which you can benefit from this program.

To whom should the recommendation letters be addressed to?

You can address the recommendation letters to the “HIGH IRI Review Committee.”

Which version of the biosketch should I use?

Please use the most recent (Forms D) non-fellowship NIH Biosketch. You can find instructions and template here: http://grants.nih.gov/grants/forms/biosketch.htm

Eligibility and Selection

I do not reside in St. Louis. Am I eligible to participate in this program?

The HIGH-IRI welcomes trainees who reside anywhere in the US or internationally. Applicants do not have to be US citizens. Our program will assist with short-term visas to attend the in-person training for those who will need them.

Do I need to have a doctorate level degree to apply to the program?

Yes. You must hold a doctorate level degree (e.g. MD, PhD, PharmD, DrPH, DO, etc.)

What is meant by an early career researcher?

Early career researchers are those that have completed their doctorate level degree and who are currently in post-doctoral training or at the junior faculty level (i.e., Assistant Professor rank or below).

What are the selection criteria?

We seek scholars who have high potential for success as independently funded researchers conducting impactful research. We also seek individuals who will act as effective champions for implementation research in the applied scientific field of infectious diseases. We anticipate a diverse cohort who will complement each other in topic, perspectives, regions and approaches.

I am not affiliated with a University, can I still apply?

Yes. Individuals primarily involved in knowledge generation and research in non-governmental organizations, governments, public health agencies and multi-national agencies are encouraged to apply.

I am not a US Citizen, can I still apply?

Yes. We welcome applications from both national and international researchers.

Program Details

How long is the program period?

The HIGH IRI program period is 24 months.

Does this program provide salaries for trainees?

No, we do not offer salary support for trainees.

How much time will I need to spend in St. Louis as a participant?

We intend trainees to be required to attend our annual one-week, in-residence training and networking periods on campus at Washington University in St. Louis each year for two years (for a total of two weeks).

What are the dates of the in-residence part of the training program?

The dates for the 2024 in-residence training have not been finalized. The dates will be announced and posted as soon as they are confirmed.