Are you a library professional interested in learning to do research? Are you excited at the prospect of being part of an intensive and collaborative program that guides you through the process of learning research design and completing a health information research project?
MLA’s Research Training Institute for Health Sciences Librarians (RTI) was designed for you!
The deadline to apply to our 2022–23 program has been extended to January 31.
Please follow links to the application instructions and the online application form.
What does the RTI offer you?
- An immersive research training experience led by expert faculty that includes a series of digital learning modules and curriculum tailored to participants’ interests and skills, small-group sessions, and individual consultations with faculty
- Individual mentoring and coaching by faculty and peer coaches for a year
- Pre-institute preparation and assessment
- Participation in an online research community of practice that:
- Supports and encourages you in doing research
- Offers advice and guidance from peers and experts
- Helps you find research partners
- Keeps you informed of current research projects and grant opportunities
- An opportunity to present a research poster at the 2023 MLA annual conference
What will you know and be able to do after participating in the RTI?
RTI will transform library professionals with novice or intermediate research skill levels into researchers able to independently conduct or lead a quality research project. RTI training covers all the stages of designing, implementing, and communicating a successful health information research project.
You will be able to develop effective research questions, select a research design, identify the components of a research project, collect, manage, and analyze data, publish and present the results of a research project, and much more.
How will the RTI help you advance your career?
As a 2022 RTI Fellow, you will:
- GAIN a marketable set of skills
- BUILD confidence in discussing research and scholarship with teaching faculty and researchers at your institution
- DEVELOP skills that allow you to implement research ideas that transform your library and raise your professional profile
- ACQUIRE expertise needed to publish in peer-reviewed journals
- JOIN a network of researchers who can help you in making a next step
Who is eligible?
Institute training is designed for library professionals who have a strong interest in research but do not yet possess the skills and confidence to conduct research on their own. (MLA membership is not required.)
Admission is competitive. Only twenty-six applicants will be selected. Review the eligibility requirements and selection criteria.
What is the application process?
Read more information, including fees and RTI applicant information.
Are scholarships available?
Yes! The Institute offers several scholarship opportunities. Most of the twenty-six participants will be supported by scholarships.
How is the Institute funded?
The Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) awarded the Medical Library Association a three-year grant to offer Training Institutes in 2021 and 2022. The Medical Library Association, the Association of Academic Health Sciences Libraries (AAHLS), donations from MLA members and chapters and the National Library of Medicine Regional Medical Libraries, and tuition fees provide additional support. The 2022-23 program will be the fifth year of the RTI.
What if you have questions?
For questions regarding the institute, application process, or scholarships, please contact the project director, Susan Lessick, AHIP, FMLA.
