Integrating Biomarkers in Population-Based Research Summer Course -- June 2-6, 2008

Do you want to include biomarkers in your research but don't know how to get started? This week-long introduction provides a basic understanding and practical examples for collecting specimens such as blood, saliva, hair, and more. The course focuses on understanding the linkage of biomarkers with social and behavioral data using a hands-on approach.

TOPICS INCLUDE

developing hypotheses and aims that require biomarkers
study design and interdisciplinary research
identifying collaborators, selecting labs, and ensuring high-quality data from biomarkers
protocols for biomarker collection, processing, storage, and specimen management
ethical issues
assessing costs
special requirements for collecting biomarkers in an international setting
emerging techniques for biomarker assessment

Examples will be used from case studies. Time will be spent on practical exercises along with visits to local labs or relevant facilities.

TARGET AUDIENCE

The target audience is population research professionals who are interested in gaining the practical knowledge to integrate collection of biomarkers into their research.

WHERE

The course will be taught on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Information about hotel options will be provided.

WHEN

June 2 through June 6 (Monday through Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm; Friday: 9 am to 12 noon).

INSTRUCTORS

Dr. Andrew Olshan, Professor & Chair, Epidemiology, and Fellow, Carolina Population Center
Dr. Nancy Dole, Deputy Director, Carolina Population Center
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

APPLICATION FOR COURSE ADMISSION AND TRAVEL STIPEND

The course is limited to 20 attendees. For those admitted, no tuition will be charged to attend the course. A limited number of stipends will be awarded ($400 each) to cover travel/per diem. Interested individuals must submit materials through the ICPSR website on or after February 20, 2008. Please read the ICPSR course description, fill out the online application (the Biomarkers course is listed under competitive 3-5 day workshops), and submit all supporting materials by April 7, 2008. Decisions will be made about admission no later than April 15, 2008.