A training session for SMDP Biotech will be held
September 19-23, 2020 in Raleigh, NC
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A training session for SMDP MedTech will be held 
October 3-7, 2020 in Toronto, Canada
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What is SMDP? 
The one year career mentoring program pairs ethnically diverse students (Baccalaureate, Master or Ph.D.) and early career researchers with industry mentors who work at companies in the medical technology, biotechnology and consumer healthcare industries.

With their mentors, Scholars attend a 5-day training session to learn about career opportunities in industry and receive career development coaching. They also attend a major industry conference.

The goals of the program for the mentors, mentees and partner companies are described in this presentation:
   SMDP Overview & Program Goals  

Past program materials: 
   2019 SMDP MedTech Training Agenda & Scholar Bios  
   2019 SMDP Biotech Training Agenda & Scholar Bios
   2018 SMDP MedTech Training Agenda & Scholar Bios 

What are the benefits to SMDP

• Attend a 5-day career training experience that pairs SMDP Scholars with industry mentors from medical technology, biotechnology and consumer healthcare companies

• Receive one year of personalized career mentoring and guidance from an industry mentor

• The opportunity to meet and network with medical technology, biotechnology and consumer healthcare industry mentors and other SMDP Scholars

• Conference accommodations, meals, complementary registration for the SMDP training session

• Complimentary registration for a major industry conference

• Up to $350 in travel cost reimbursements

• A personalized profile on the Mentoring Portal

• Ongoing networking and career opportunities

Who may apply? 
Baccalaureate, graduate or Ph.D. students and Post-Doctoral researchers from racial and ethnic groups (Hispanic Americans, Pacific Islanders, African Americans and Native Americans), underrepresented in the medtical technology, biotechnology and consumer healthcare workforce.   

Applicants must be eligible to work permanently in the United States without needing a visa or sponsorship.

Select the Apply or Selection link above to find out about the disciplines and skills we seek for each sector or watch our student info webinar.

How do SMDP Scholars receive mentoring?
With their mentors, SMDP Scholars develop a Personalized Mentoring Plan which includes goals and action items designed to prepare the SMDP Scholars for careers in the medical technology, biotechnology or consumer healthcare industries.

Mentor-mentee teams carry out their mentoring plans for a year following the SMDP training session. They communicate monthly once a month by phone, email and virtually, aided by ICPD staff and the SMDP Mentoring Portal, a web-based tool that supports mentor-mentee collaboration and communication.

How is SMDP publicized and how are applicants invited?
The International Center for Professional Development (ICPD) distributes information about the program through its websites and sends emails directly to universities and academic institutions across the United States and Puerto Rico. The SMDP Scholars Alumni have also become a large source for word of mouth referrals.

How do I apply to become a SMDP Scholar?

• Complete the online SMDP application form

• Submit your resume and two letters of recommendation: one from a major instructor and one from your faculty advisor or a suitable substitute

• Submit a 2-page personal narrative describing how you think SMDP will enhance your education and professional development. Also include your long-term career goals, academic goals, and research focus. Lastly, discuss how an industry mentor will impact your career and what you expect to gain.

How are SMDP Scholars selected?
Scholar selection for each program is carried out by a committee of representatives from industry. Applicants are evaluated based on predetermined criteria.   The committee's recommendations are compiled and a summary report is used to determine the final selection participants.

When will I be notified of my selection status?
Applicants will be informed of their selection status within 30 days after the application deadline. 

Have a question?
Contact Dustielyn Savage at:
dsavage@icpdprograms.org
or call us at 951 599-4956