Professionals from the health research ecosystem join open discussions with trainees at The Institute in annual mentoring event from the Desjardins Centre for Advanced Training
On December 4, 2024, the Desjardins Centre for Advanced Training (DCAT) at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (The Institute) hosted the highly anticipated Career Spark networking event. This annual career development event offers trainees an invaluable opportunity to connect with professionals from various sectors of the health research ecosystem.
The event featured a dynamic networking lunch in a roundtable format. Trainees at The Institute were able to engage in candid, meaningful conversations with professionals working in a variety of research fields. Careers in clinical trials, regulatory affairs, innovation, research funding, data science, and research management were represented. These discussions provided trainees with tailored advice and actionable insights to help navigate their career journeys.
“This event is a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between academic training and the wider world of professional opportunities,” said Gilbert Tordjman, Chief Operating and Development Officer at The Institute. “The enthusiasm of both trainees and professionals demonstrates the value of these interactions.”
The Institute offered a heartfelt thank you to the more than 25 exceptional professionals, including alumni of The Institute, who generously shared their experiences and guidance. Professionals also relished the chance to give back. “Inspiring the next generation of scientists and helping them navigate their career paths is incredibly rewarding,” said Emily Bell, Associate Director of DCAT.
The Desjardins Centre for Advanced Training remains committed to empowering trainees at The Institute through innovative career development initiatives. By sharing the many employment opportunities available beyond academia, the DCAT team hopes to equip our skilled research trainees with useful strategies for envisioning and developing their future careers. The lively conversations and overwhelming attendance at Career Spark confirmed that this event successfully energized the attendees with fresh ideas and renewed confidence for the next steps of their careers.
Additional Resources
Through innovative training programs, DCAT supports trainees at The Institute with the goal of providing advanced career development skills and knowledge, preparing trainees for impactful professional roles in research settings and across the broader health and life sciences ecosystem. Learn more by visiting the webpage for the Desjardins Centre for Advanced Training or stay up to date on the latest training initiatives by following the McGill Tremplin Events Calendar. For more information, please contact dcat@muhc.mcgill.ca.
