Turn Your Interest in Health and Science into Real-World Clinical Research Experience

About the Program

The Penn State Undergraduate Clinical Research Training Program provides hands-on experience in clinical research, connecting classroom learning with real-world practice. Based at Penn State Greater Allegheny, the program welcomes students from Greater Allegheny, University Park, Penn State New Kensington, and Penn State Harrisburg.

Through partnerships with Allegheny Health Network Research Institute, Penn State College of Medicine, and Clinical Research Strategies, LLC, students gain practical experience in patient care, data management, clinical trials, and health policy. Penn State Greater Allegheny is the only regional campus offering this opportunity.

What You Can Expect

Students majoring in Biobehavioral Health or related science programs may apply during their fifth semester. At University Park, students in Health and Human Development or Biology are eligible.

Program components include:

  • Capstone Course: A 3-credit Clinical Research Practice course
  • Internships: Summer placements with clinical research professionals at partner organizations
  • Professional Development: Workshops, networking events, and conference participation
  • Research Symposium: Presentation of original research to peers and professionals

Admission Requirements

  • Eligibility: Fifth-semester standing in Biobehavioral Health, Psychology, or related science programs
  • Prerequisites: BIOL 162 or KINES 203, and STAT 200 or STAT 250
  • Application: Submit a letter of interest; approval is required to enroll in the capstone course

Student Experience

Students in the program develop skills in:

  • Clinical research practices and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards
  • Data management and health outcomes research
  • Regulatory requirements and informed consent processes
  • Medical research areas such as oncology, cardiovascular disease, orthopedics, and neuroscience
  • Health policy and social factors that influence research

Leadership and Advisory Committee

The program is guided by Penn State faculty, clinicians, and research professionals from partner organizations.

Program Leadership

  • Andrea Stevens, Ph.D. — Director, Undergraduate Clinical Research Training Program
  • Kristal Tucker, Ph.D. — Program Coordinator, Biobehavioral Health, Penn State Greater Allegheny
  • Kyle Bird — Program Developer; former Vice President of Research, Allegheny Health Network; current Vice President of Research, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Advisory Committee Members

James Pawelczyk, Ph.D. | Kevin Gardner, RN | Nicole Tarr | Dennis Shea, Ph.D. | Heather McDonald, MHA, CCRC | Erin Iman | Penelope Morrison, Ph.D. | Weston Kensinger, Ph.D. | Julie Cramer