Admissions
Traineeships
Applications for 2026-2027 are now open! Applications will be due July 1st, 2026.
The application for the QCMDB Training Program must include the following items:
- A current CV
- A QCMDB IDP completed by the applicant and their mentor. To help set career goals, visit http://myidp.sciencecareers.org. To obtain a copy of the QCMDB IDP, please email QCMDB@northwestern.edu.
- A one-page research project description from the applicant providing background and biomedical significance of the research, a list of project goals, and specific plans to achieve these objectives. This is similar to a specific aims page for a grant.
- A half- to one-page statement about the applicant's career goals and motivation for participating in the QCMDB Training Program. QCMDB welcomes resilience. We encourage you to describe any persistent challenges and unique life experiences that inform your career goals and motivation to join the training program.
- A copy of the applicant's graduate transcripts (unofficial copies of transcripts are sufficient).
- Two letters of recommendation. One letter from the thesis mentor must (i) discuss why the applicant would be a good fit for the program, (ii) agree to allow mentees to satisfy all QCMDB requirements, (iii) agree to the Preceptor Expectations, and (iv) indicate that the mentor has discussed the IDP with the applicant. A second letter from a faculty member (e.g., rotation or undergrad mentors) familiar with the applicant's abilities and research potential.
The deadline for ALL application materials, including the letters of recommendation, is July 1, 2026.