Reference Number: 000002052
Posted Date: 4/1/2025
Closing Date: 4/25/2025

Department: LTRI
Position: Summer Student (Scholars in Geriatrics Research Program)

The Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute (LTRI) of Mount Sinai Hospital, a University of Toronto affiliated research centre, is one of the world's leading centres in biomedical research.  With ground-breaking discoveries in research areas such as diabetes, genetic disorders, cancer and women’s and infants’ health, the Institute is committed to excellence in health research and the training of young investigators.  Strong partnerships with the clinical programs of Mount Sinai Hospital ensure that scientific knowledge is used to promote human health.  Your significant contributions will assist in maintaining our momentum in advancing our research.

Position Overview: We are excited to announce the opportunity for dedicated undergraduate and graduate students to join the Summer Scholars in Geriatrics Research Program hosted by the Sinai Health/UHN Section of Geriatric Medicine. This 12-week, full-time program offers students the chance to engage in cutting-edge research aimed at improving the health and well-being of older adults. Scholars will work closely with leading clinical or research mentors on impactful projects that span a variety of geriatric health topics. This is an excellent opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of aging-related health issues and gain hands-on experience in healthcare research. Students will also participate in an educational series on various geriatric and research topics.

Program Structure:

• Research Areas: Scholars will participate in research projects within one of the following focused areas in geriatrics:
  1. Geriatric Oncology – Conduct research exploring the intersection of aging and cancer care, examining treatment outcomes, survivorship, and quality of life for older cancer patients.
  2. Dementia Research – Contribute to projects aimed at improving dementia care, explore the state of existing support programs, examining symptom management, end-of-life care, and caregiver support and understanding the impact of dementia on older adults and their families.
  3. HIV and Older Adults – Research the unique health challenges faced by older adults living with HIV, with a focus on multi-morbidity, pharmacology, aging-related complications, and healthcare delivery.
  4. AI and Technology in Geriatrics – Explore the role of ethics within artificial intelligence, digital health technologies, and innovative tools in enhancing geriatric care, improving patient outcomes, and supporting healthcare professionals.
  5. Precariously Housed Older Adults – Conduct systematic review research addressing the health, social, and systemic challenges faced by older adults living in precarious housing situations and with heart failure, and identify strategies to improve their quality of life and care.
  6. Antibiotic Use for Non-English Preferred Language Patients – Study the impact of language barriers on the prescription, adherence, and outcomes of antibiotic treatments in older adults, with a particular focus on those who speak languages other than English.
  7. Alternate Level of Care (ALC) – Quality Improvement research on the systemic issues surrounding older adults in ALC, including delays in transitions from hospital to long-term care and the impact on patient health outcomes.

• Mentorship & Professional Development: Students will be paired with clinical or research mentor(s) who will guide them through the research process, from data collection to analysis and dissemination. In addition to working on their designated projects, students will participate in weekly seminars, workshops, and networking events, designed to build their professional skills and knowledge in geriatrics research.

• Key Responsibilities:
  • Conduct literature reviews and assist in the design and implementation of research studies.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret data under the guidance of the mentor.
  • Contribute to the development of manuscripts, reports, and presentations.
  • Engage with interdisciplinary teams of researchers, healthcare professionals, and policy-makers.
  • Attend and contribute to educational series
  • Attend and contribute to the End of Year presentations.

Eligibility:

• Open to undergraduate and graduate students with a demonstrated interest in geriatrics, healthcare, or related fields.
• Must be available to work full-time (35–40 hours per week) for the entire 12-week period, starting May 30 2025 and ending August 31, 2025
• Previous research experience is preferred but not required.
• Strong communication and organizational skills are essential.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• A genuine interest in the care and health needs of older adults. Prior experience in Geriatrics not required.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

1. Cover Letter (maximum 2 pages) addressing the following:
   • Why you are interested in the Summer Scholars in Geriatrics Research Program.
   • Your top two research topic choices from the list above. Please indicate your reasons for choosing these topics and any relevant experience or interest you have.
   • Applications without a topic selection will not be considered.
2. Current Resume/CV, including relevant academic achievements, research experience (if any), and any relevant extracurricular activities.
3. Academic Transcript (unofficial transcript is acceptable).
4. Contact Information for two academic or professional references.

Important Notes:

• The program is highly competitive, and only applications with a specified topic selection will be reviewed.
• Only individuals currently registered in an undergraduate, graduate or post-graduate academic program can apply. International students who are able to be in-person, in Toronto, Ontario are eligible.
• Students should be prepared to commit to the full-time duration of the program and be flexible regarding the nature of the work involved.

Deadline for Applications: April 25, 2025

For inquiries, please contact Geriatrics.Program@sinaihealth.ca

We are excited to support the next generation of researchers in geriatrics, and we look forward to receiving your application for the Summer Scholars in Geriatrics Research Program!

Application Review Process:

• Applications will be reviewed based on academic merit, relevant experience, and alignment with the research topics.
• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

In accordance with Institute’s policy and legislated health and safety requirements, employment is conditional upon the verification of credentials, completion of a health review, and demonstrating proof of immunity and vaccination status of vaccine-preventable diseases. Successful candidates will be required to provide two (2) written reference letters from their former employer(s)/supervisor(s).

We are a fully committed to fairness and equity in employment and our recruitment and selection practices. We encourage applications from Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, members of sexual minority groups, members of racialized groups, women and any others who may contribute to the further diversification of our Sinai Health community. Accommodation will be provided in all parts of the hiring process as required under our Access for People with Disabilities policy. Applicants need to make their requirements known in advance.

The Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute is a scent sensitive environment and all members of the community are expected to refrain from wearing or using scented products while visiting or working at the Institute. We also support a barrier-free workplace supported by the Institute’s accessibility plan, accommodation and disability management policies and procedures. Should you require accommodation at any point during the recruitment process, including accessible job postings, please contact the Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Human Resources Department.

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