Praxis–Mass General Neuroscience Clinical Research Scholars Program
Overview
The Praxis–Mass General Neuroscience Clinical Research Scholars Program provides an opportunity for clinical or translational researchers to participate in drug development programs at Praxis Precision Medicines while maintaining academic engagement within the Mass General Brigham neurology community.
Praxis Precision Medicines develops therapies based on genetic insights into neurological disease, with clinical programs focused on conditions such as pediatric epilepsies, movement disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, headache, and pain.
Scholars gain exposure to the full therapeutic development process, including translational medicine, biomarker development, clinical pharmacology, clinical trial design, and regulatory science. The program prepares trainees for leadership roles in academic medicine, clinical research, or the pharmaceutical industry.
Requirements
Applicants should meet the following criteria:
- MD or PhD with clinical or translational research experience
- Interest in neurological or psychiatric therapeutic development
- Eligibility for appointment within the Department of Neurology or Psychiatry at Mass General Brigham
Candidates are selected by a joint Praxis–Mass General selection committee.
Curriculum
The program provides immersive training in translational neuroscience and clinical drug development.
Key components include:
- Participation in therapeutic development programs at Praxis Precision Medicines
- Training in translational medicine and biomarker development
- Exposure to clinical pharmacology and toxicology
- Experience in clinical trial design and execution
- Engagement with regulatory affairs and drug development strategy
Scholars divide their time approximately equally between academic activities at Mass General Brigham and drug development work at Praxis Precision Medicines over a two-year period.
Research Experience
Scholars participate in independent or collaborative research projects focused on neurological disease and therapeutic development. Projects may involve biomarker discovery, translational neuroscience research, clinical trial methodology, or emerging therapeutic approaches.
Through this work, trainees gain practical experience in the design and implementation of clinical research programs and contribute to advancing new treatments for neurological and psychiatric disorders.
How to Apply
Applicants should submit the following materials:
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Letter of intent describing research interests and career goals
- Letters of recommendation
- Additional supporting materials as requested by the selection committee
Applications are reviewed by a joint Praxis Precision Medicines and Mass General selection committee.
Program Director
Andrew J. Cole, MD