Graduate Diploma in Health Research - GDipHR

GDipHR Information Session

The GDipHR program offers a unique opportunity for a limited number of first-year MD students to engage in research with a University of Toronto faculty mentor, complete a specialized research skills course, and take an elective graduate course. The program spans 20 consecutive months and grants a UofT diploma upon completion, alongside the MD degree.

Designed for future physicians passionate about health-related research, the GDipHR program provides exposure to advanced research methodologies and enhances competitiveness for future training opportunities. It offers students without prior research experience a chance to develop new skills, while allowing those with existing experience to stay current and enrich their MD training.

The purpose of the GDipHR is to provide selected 1st-year medical students an opportunity to participate in the continuum of research – from idea creation to data collection to scientific publication and/or presentation at a scholarly meeting – via a consecutive 20-month longitudinal research program.   Students will also be exposed to coursework related to a broad range of research concepts, topics, methodologies, and applications to health care.

GDipHR will offer a limited number of competitively selected first year MD students an opportunity to conduct a research project mentored by a U of T Graduate Faculty researcher, complete a didactic course MSC1992Y - Research Skills for the Physician Scientist and take a relevant elective graduate half course.  Successful completion of the entire program over 20 consecutive months (from January 1 of MD year 1 to the end of the summer following MD year 2) will earn the student an additional U of T Diploma at the time of graduation with the MD degree. 

Guidance for Prospective Supervisors

Identifying a Project and Preliminary Meetings: Submitted projects are now posted on the GDipHR website. Once a student has identified research project(s) of interest, they are strongly encouraged to meet with potential supervisors to gain a clear understanding of the project's scope and requirements. This initial discussion will also allow both you and the student to assess if there is a strong alignment of interests and working style, and to confirm your willingness to supervise the student should they be selected. You may meet with multiple students but should only submit an application with one student. 

Student Application Submission Deadline: Students must submit a complete application package by November 8, 2024. This package includes a description of the proposed project they will be working on and will require your input. The project can be different from the one posted if it aligns better with your mutual interests and skillset. 

Notification of Acceptance: By December 5, 2024, successful student applicants will be notified. 

Supervisor Commitment Form: Once students are accepted into the program, we require a GDipHR Supervisor Commitment Form. This document formalizes your commitment to supervise the student's research project. This form needs to be submitted via email to the GDipHR office at gdip.hres@utoronto.ca no later than December 11, 2024. 

Please note, faculty may only supervise one GDipHR student at a time. 

 

Program Information