Internship: Geriatric Psychiatry

Internship: Geriatric Psychiatry
Dr. Ipsit Vahia, Geriatric Psychiatry Research Program, McLean Hospital / Harvard University
spring 2025

The Geriatric Psychiatry Research Program addresses cutting edge research questions in the areas of dementia and mood disorders using new neuroimaging techniques, clinicopathological correlations, and other study methods. Current studies include a number of Industry- Sponsored Alzheimer's Disease clinical drug trials, longitudinal analyses of older adults with depression and bipolar disorder, and Investigator-Initiated clinical trials focused on treatment interventions for behavioral symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease, and neuroimaging studies. Internship Overview: This internship, part of the Geriatric Psychiatry Student Visitor Practicum at McLean Hospital, is geared towards students who are actively enrolled in an undergraduate program and are interested in gaining clinical and research experience. Student Visitors are primarily responsible for assisting with lab related procedures that include but are not limited to data entry, patient escort, transcription, and literature review compositions. Student Visitors are also encouraged to pursue their own research interests and take advantage of McLean Hospital’s resources, such as attending grand rounds presentations. Students will receive 1:1 mentorship with PIs and available clinicians to discuss future career/research interests. Additional opportunities include learning how to practice administering neuropsychological batteries, shadowing research visits, learning about research processes, sitting in on lab meetings, and conducting an independent research project. Responsibilities: These may include (1) assisting with study procedures; (2) pre-screening potential study candidates; (3) data entry and database management; (4) literature reviews as needed; (5) assisting investigators with presentation and manuscript preparations; (6) assisting with recruitment; and (7) any other duties assigned. Requirements and Expectations: Outstanding applicants for this position should have a predisposition to working with patients and demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills. Due to the dynamic and variable nature of the position, applicants should show careful attention to detail and have excellent organizational skills with an ability to prioritize tasks.  Qualifications of strong candidate: (1) strong desire and willingness to learn; (2) interest in research, medicine, psychiatry, psychology, neuroscience, or biology; (3) experience interacting with patients, older adults, and/or diverse populations; (4) proficient computer skills; (5) previous research experience preferred; (6) ability to work in-person at McLean Hospital in Belmont, MA preferred; and (7) proficiency with traditional and social media preferred. Additional Information: We offer students the option to work remotely, in-person, or on a hybrid schedule. McLean Hospital offers students the option to receive academic credit for the position. Students interested in receiving academic credit must check with their institution to identify a suitable program and supervisor to oversee the student’s progress and ensure they are meeting its curriculum and clinical education goals. McLean requires a signed affiliation agreement with the institution that outlines obligations of both parties to ensure proper implementation and evaluation of clinical research education for the student. This agreement is drafted by McLean and cannot be edited. Further information is available on our FAQ page. For questions specific to this lab, contact Keegan Lant at klant@mclean.harvard.edu. To Apply: CLICK HERE. Please use this application portal to formally apply. Due to the high volume of applications, emails with application materials will not be reviewed. (posted 12/2024)