Supporting the Next Generation of Emerging Scholars

By CEO James Appleby, BSPharm, MPH

GSA had the honor of hosting a reception for the 2018 class of National Institute on Aging (NIA) Butler-Williams Scholars during their week-long immersive training program here in the DC metro area earlier this month.
 
The Butler-Williams Scholars Program is designed for junior faculty and researchers new to aging.  Given GSA’s role as a home for junior scholars through the Society’s Emerging Scholar and Professional Organization, supporting this event was a natural.

The Butler-Williams Scholars Program provides insight on many facets of aging research. During five intense days of instruction, the 56 emerging scholars comprising the class of 2018 participated in lectures, seminars, and small group discussions on the biology of aging, genetics, Alzheimer's disease, social and behavioral health, health disparities, research methods and interventions, to name just a few topics. Participants also benefited from the opportunity to meet division heads and the extraordinary staff that keeps NIA moving forward.  Scholars had the chance to consult with NIA staff on the development of research interests as well as to seek advice on preparing and submitting grant applications to NIA.

Given the diversity of disciplines and research interests represented among the 56 participants, hosting this event felt like a mini GSA Annual Scientific Meeting. This diversity keeps GSA and the aging research field strong.
For those interested in learning more about the Butler-Williams Program, watch the NIA website for announcements regarding the application process for 2019.