APPLICATION GUIDELINES
Program Overview
The CANTRAIN Graduate and Postdoctoral Trainee Career Development Program is a 16-module virtual experience designed to support undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral health sciences trainees enrolled at Canadian universities in Eastern Canada (from Ontario to Newfoundland & Labrador). The program introduces learners to professional roles in clinical trial operations, regulatory affairs, and medical affairs while enhancing transferable skills and expanding their understanding of clinical research and drug development.
The program has the following learning objectives:
- Develop Knowledge in Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs
Understand clinical trial processes, drug discovery, and regulatory frameworks, including Health Canada processes and health technology assessments.
- Foster Career Development and Networking Opportunities
Explore diverse career paths and build professional networks through interactive sessions and a capstone project.
- Enhance Transferable Skills
Strengthen communication, teamwork, and problem-solving through collaborative activities and projects.
- Support Reflective Career Planning
Align career goals with personal strengths and identify knowledge gaps to guide next steps with confidence.
The modules focus on facilitating career exploration and providing practical knowledge, professional connections, and opportunities for learners to explore career paths that align with their strengths and interests.
Eligibility
The CANTRAIN GPT Career Development Program is highly competitive, with limited spaces available per cohort. Applications are reviewed individually during the adjudication process, and acceptance is based on alignment with the program’s goals and criteria.
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Current undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral health sciences trainees enrolled at Canadian universities.
- Learners nearing the end of their academic programs and preparing to transition into professional roles.
- Individuals with limited exposure to clinical research but a strong interest in exploring careers in clinical trials, regulatory affairs, or medical affairs.
- Be able to commit 4-6 hours per week for the duration of the program, including attendance at live sessions and participation in group activities.
The program is tailored to support learners with little to no background in clinical research, focusing on providing foundational knowledge and skills for career exploration and development.
Application Instructions
- Complete the application form provided, ensuring that all questions are answered clearly and accurately.
- Highlight any challenges or limitations you have faced in your academic or professional journey and how you have overcome them.
Application Timeline
- Application period: January 27 – February 9, 2025. Late submissions will not be considered.
- Adjudication: February 10-14, 2025. Results will be sent by email.
Accepted Learners Calendar:
- Registration to CANTRAIN Common Core Foundation: February 17-March 11, 2025 (for new users)
- Program Start Date: March 18, 2025
Note: Learners must complete the Common Core Foundation prior to March 11, 2025.