University of Michigan Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications (ELSI) Research Training Program

Dramatic advances in genetics and genomics promise to enhance medicine and public health, but they also pose important ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI). The University of Michigan (U-M) Training Program in ELSI Research, funded by the National Institutes of Health, seeks to prepare the next generation of ELSI scholars for success as innovative, impactful investigators.

• The program offers an integrated program of advanced coursework, research mentoring, and professional development, led by an interdisciplinary team of U-M faculty mentors with expertise and resources in medicine, public health, public policy, and social and behavioral disciplines. In addition, trainees will be able to participate in the rich research and practice environment at U-M as exemplified by its highly regarded programs in public health genetics, genetic counseling, human genetics, genomic medicine, health law, science and technology studies, and its Center for Bioethics & Social Sciences in Medicine.

• The postdoctoral position provides two years of funding including a stipend (at least $50,000 annually), healthcare, and tuition support.

• Upon entry into the program, each fellow will be matched with a primary and secondary research mentor with mutual interests and relevant research expertise. Such mentoring will be combined with an integrated program of advanced coursework and professional development activities. Each trainee will participate in an individualized, 2-year course of training that will provide knowledge and skills in the following areas:

  • The current state of genomic science and medicine

  • Core principles and frameworks in bioethics

  • Quantitative and qualitative research methods

  • Grant writing and manuscript preparation

  • The implementation of interdisciplinary ELSI research projects

More information: https://sph.umich.edu/elsi-fellowship/index.html