Clinical Laboratory Science Investigator Award

This award is sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company.

Clinical laboratory science is a critical component of the research capabilities required for effective drug and diagnostic development. As pathologists enable the next wave of medical innovation, it is important that the future generation understand the challenges and opportunities of applying principles of laboratory medicine practice within industry.

The Clinical Laboratory Science Investigator Award—sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company—seeks to provide a four-week onsite training opportunity at Lilly’s Clinical Diagnostics Laboratory in Indianapolis for pathology residents to participate in research projects focused on improving the discovery, quality, and delivery of novel biomarker assays for use in clinical studies.

Award features the opportunity for recipients to:

• gain exposure to the clinical trial ecosystem
• achieve greater understanding of and exposure to advanced analytical techniques
• heighten their understanding of the impact pathologists can make on medical innovation
• engage in a project based on individual interests (eg, clinical chemistry, anatomic pathology, or molecular diagnostics)
• interact with a diverse group of Lilly professionals within the Clinical Diagnostics Laboratory
• obtain a broader perspective on available career pathways

Funding up to $5,000 is available to support travel and living expenses during the four-week training period. Awardees and/or their institutions should expect to cover any travel costs that exceed the amount awarded.

Eligibility

Pathology residents, currently enrolled in a pathology residency program with at least one year of residency completed at time of application may apply. Applicants will be considered regardless of age, race, gender, national origin, or religion.

In addition to application process details, selection considers the candidate’s research background and interest in drug and diagnostic development.

Applicants with the following are encouraged to apply:

• A proven track record of undergraduate and/or graduate research
• A broad interest in biomarker evaluation
• A strong desire to deliver innovation as a future pathologist

To Apply

Training to take place in 2025.  Submit the following, with your completed application, by November 1, 2024:

1. Your residency program director’s signature (invite this individual as a collaborator on your application).
2. A letter of recommendation and documentation from your residency program director confirming that your salary and benefits will be supported during the award period.
3. Responses to the following:

• • Your interest in research projects that are focused on improving the discovery, quality, and delivery of novel biomarker assays for use in clinical studies, why this experience is desired, and how it will enhance your training in pathology
  • Any previous experience that will help you fulfill the elective’s objectives
  • How you will use this experience to benefit the practice of pathology and by extension to society
  • Your plan for sharing your experience and the information learned with colleagues
  • Why you require CAP Foundation financial support and what other means of support are available

4. Curriculum vitae
5. Professional headshot for use in Foundation web and print media (Requirements: 1+ megabyte, color, professional dress, neutral background; no selfies please)

If Selected

This training will take place in 2025 based on Lilly personnel availability, project timing, and resources. 

You are required to submit the following within 30 days of completing the on-site training:

• an overview (500-700 words) of your experience
• a short evaluation form
• video testimonial (90 seconds)
• an expense report with receipts
• a photo of you and the Lilly team

The CAP Foundation and Lilly may also communicate the bestowing of this award and content from your evaluation form and project findings for future CAP Foundation promotional purposes with CAP members and donors via the Foundation’s website, social media channels, newsletter, or annual report.