Visiting Graduate Student
Mentor/Principal Investigator: Dr. Atkins
Department: Radiation Oncology / Cardio-Oncology Research
Location: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA (On-site with possible hybrid flexibility)
Position Type: Research Internship (Unpaid)
Duration: Minimum 12 weeks
Overview:
Cedars-Sinai is offering a research internship opportunity for a medical student to participate in ongoing clinical cancer outcomes research under the mentorship of Dr. Katelyn Atkins. This position is designed for a highly motivated medical student seeking to gain hands-on experience in multidisciplinary research that explores the adverse cardiac effects of cancer therapies—particularly radiation therapy—and the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 immunity and cardiovascular health in cancer patients.
Key Responsibilities:
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Review and extract relevant clinical data from electronic medical records (EMRs), including cardiovascular and cancer history, imaging results, and radiotherapy treatment plans
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Record and manage data in Cedars-Sinai’s REDCap database and/or secure Excel files on Box/OneDrive
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Participate in introductory coding activities, including radiomics and machine learning applications
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Conduct basic data analysis and assist in generating models for clinical outcome evaluation
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Work under active IRB-approved protocols:
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Data Repository for Thoracic and GI Radiotherapy
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Cardiovascular Toxicity in Breast Cancer
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EMBARC Study
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Learning & Mentorship Structure:
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Weeks 1–4: Introduction to EMR chart review, clinical database curation, coding basics, and introductory statistics
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Weeks 5–10: Continued data collection with increased focus on data processing and analysis
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Weeks 11+: Integration of clinical and technical skills into ongoing research projects
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Weekly one-on-one mentorship meetings with Dr. Atkins for guidance, feedback, and academic development
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Exposure to collaborative research with medical physicists, oncologists, and cardiologists
Requirements:
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Current enrollment in an accredited medical school
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Strong interest in clinical research, oncology, cardiology, or radiation medicine
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Ability to commit a minimum of 12 weeks
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Familiarity with basic medical terminology and EMR systems preferred
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Prior experience with statistical software or coding is a plus but not required
Additional Information:
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This is an educational, non-clinical role. There is no direct patient interaction or recruitment activity.
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All activities are conducted under approved IRB protocols.
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Most work is conducted on-site with flexibility for remote work as appropriate.
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Required Education & Experience |
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· Must be 18 years of age or older. · Must have a HS Diploma or GED. · Must reside in the greater Los Angeles area or surrounding cities while conducting all activities related to the intern or visitor appointment. · INTERNS: Those participating for academic credit must receive academic credit for the duration of the internship. · VISITORS: Must be receiving funding from an eligible sponsoring institution (employer, educator, funder, etc.). |