All GI fellows are expected to develop a research study under supervision of clinical or basic science faculty. Fellows are expected to choose a faculty member for the project(s). All fellows are required to have submitted the results of their research for presentation at a local or national meeting and/or for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. Funds will be available for fellows to travel to one meeting at which they are presenting results of their research.
In addition to GI fellows meeting regularly with their respective research mentor, fellows will also meet at least quarterly with Dr Martin Moehlen to go over the progress of their work. These meetings serve as an opportunity to ensure timelines are on track and to tackle any logistical issues that may be encountered.
Unique to the Tulane GI section is an internal and experienced clinical trial unit that has dedicated nurse coordinators and regulatory specialist. The primary focus of this research unit is to conduct industry sponsored clinical trials for the Section; however, fellows can avail themselves to this unit to aid in getting research initiated, such as IRB submissions and conducting of research trials.
Of note, Tulane is a partner with the Louisiana Clinical and Translational Science Center (LA CATS).
Quarterly meetings to report on progress of research studies are held by Dr Martin Moehlen, the Program Director for GI and Director of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Research. These meetings will be an opportunity to assess progress and to help overcome any administrative obstacles in the progression of the research. This meeting will also be helpful in formulating and assessing progress of yearly Quality Improvement projects for the Section.
Fellows should meet regularly with their research mentors over the life of their respective projects. Fellows will also have an opportunity to discuss hypothesis formulation, project design and results (both preliminary and final) during weekly educational conferences.
