Foundations of Veterinary Biomedical Research (Study Designs & Research Methods)

Catalog description

This two-week elective provides a hands-on introduction to research methods and experimental design in veterinary medicine. Students will learn the scientific method and essential study designs (experimental vs. observational) and explore topics such as clinical trials, sampling and bias, data collection, and analysis. We also cover ethics (IACUC guidelines, Responsible Conduct of Research, general bioethics), qualitative and mixed-methods research, reproducibility, and the One Health framework (the interconnection of human, animal, and environmental health). The course blends brief lectures with active, problem-based learning and group projects. On the final day, students will focus on finding and applying for research summer internships. This session will equip students with the tools to identify suitable research opportunities and navigate the application process for securing valuable summer internships in the field of veterinary biomedical research.