The 37th cohort of VPRAD poses for a group photo before their graduation ceremony. (photo by Erin O. Smith)
The Vanderbilt Health Program for Research Administration Development (VPRAD) celebrated its 37th cohort in a graduation ceremony May 13. VPRAD is a career development program designed for any staff member working in an administrative role within a lab, clinic or administrative office within the Research Enterprise. VPRAD is intended to fill knowledge gaps and equip learners with a broad overview of Vanderbilt Health’s Research Enterprise, as well as the tools and resources to navigate within it.
Over the course of 10 weeks, participants explore topics such as the life cycle of a sponsored project, research compliance, shared resources, pre- and post-award management, financial processes, and Vanderbilt Health best practices for research administration with dozens of expert presenters. Sessions meet twice a week for a total of four hours of traditional classroom learning, and participants are also required to attend lab/office tours, complete a mentorship program, and pass a final exam.
The VPRAD project team extends its heartfelt congratulations to all graduates and sincere thanks to all the supervisors, speakers, mentors and tour leaders who made VPRAD a success. VPRAD’s 38th cohort will begin in September 2026. Applications are open now here: https://redcap.vumc.org/surveys/?s=RE4MCKCK3ANEM9YE