Program Overview
VDSTP fellows receive comprehensive training at the intersection of data science and vaccine research, including:
- Specialized coursework in data science methods, data management best practices, ethical considerations in computational research, and vaccine science
- Interdisciplinary mentorship from faculty experts in both computational and biomedical sciences
- Collaborative opportunities with VTP postdoctoral fellows and researchers across Emory's vaccine research community
- Hands-on experience with data science applications in real-world vaccine-related research
Fellows complete their dissertation research at the interface of data science and vaccinology, gaining skills that are increasingly vital in modern public health research.
Who Should Apply
We seek motivated predoctoral students who are:
- Currently enrolled in Emory's Epidemiology (EPI), Biostatistics (BIOS), Global Health and Development (GHD), or Environmental Health Sciences (EHS) PhD programs through Laney Graduate School and Rollins School of Public Health
- Entering or currently in the candidacy phase of their PhD training
- Interested in conducting dissertation research in vaccinology using data science principles and tools
- Working with (or planning to work with) a research mentor who is a VTP-T32 preceptor
Note: If your intended mentor is not yet a VTP-T32 preceptor, we can work with them to join the program upon your admission.
Program Requirements
Core Coursework includes:
- Data Science for Vaccine and Infectious Disease Research (required)
- One vaccinology course: Choose from Vaccines and Vaccine Preventable Diseases, Immunization Programs and Policies, or Epidemiologic Methods for Vaccine Evaluation
- One data science course: Choose from Data Science Toolkit, Applied Machine Learning in Public Health, or Database Development for Public Health
Mentorship and Committee - Your dissertation committee must include a VTP-T32 preceptor with data science expertise, ensuring guidance from leaders in both fields.
Professional Development - Fellows attend and present at the Infectious Diseases Research Seminar and/or the VTP-T32 Annual Symposium, building networks and communication skills.
Collaboration Opportunities - Engage with VTP postdoctoral fellows at the Annual Symposium and participate in data science consultations supporting vaccine research through CFAR and TRAC.
Questions?
For more information about the program, please contact:
Elizabeth Rogawski McQuade
erogaws@emory.edu
David Benkeser
benkeser@emory.edu