By Meena Radhakrishnan, MD
As a writer for this Trainee Newsletter, something is always in the back of my mind: my struggles, along with my dreams and aspirations. It was in eighth grade that genetics was introduced to me in the form of Mendel’s Experiment. The simple experiment evolved my thinking into a new branch in biology: genetics. Genetics was intriguing to me, and I decided that I wanted to be a researcher. Being an international student with a MD, paving a path for my dreams and aspirations was not easy. There was no information about this career path. As an ASHG Trainee Newsletter member, I hope this article will help pave a way for those who aspire to be a researcher.
I collected questions that my peers and I asked the ASHG staff and committee members. Below are their responses:
- What is ASHG and what is it catered to?
The Society’s 8,000 members include researchers, academicians, clinicians, laboratory practice professionals, genetic counselors, nurses, and others who have a special interest in the field of human genetics. Society members contribute to the advancement of science for the benefit of health and society.
- What are volunteer opportunities in ASHG?
Amanda Fulk (Associate Director, Governance and Operations): ASHG values engagement by its trainee members. Below are some ways trainees can engage as volunteers. If any of this interest you, log into your account at ashg.org and update your profile under “Volunteer Opportunities of Interest” (note: this section will not appear if you are not an active member). ASHG staff will follow up with you directly as opportunities become available.- Author content in ASHG’s trainee newsletter, The Nascent Transcript
- Judging ASHG’s annual DNA Day Essay Contest, where member judges review and score essays submitted by high school students.
- Review abstracts for ASHG’s Annual Meeting
- Serve as a moderator at a session during ASHG’s Annual Meeting
- Apply to serve on an ASHG committee in a trainee-designated position
Most of all, it is recommended to attend the ASHG Annual General Meeting held every year: this year it is held at Denver, Colorado from Nov 5-9. It is an exciting time to meet people for professional interests and also to present or learn from the ocean of knowledge.
- Is there any coaching to guide prospective trainees interested in applying for the ASHG-NHGRI fellowship programs?
Kristin Lewis (Associate Director of Fellowship Programs): In early October, ASHG will host a webinar for anyone interested in learning more about the fellowship programs from the current ASHG-NHGRI fellows. We are also planning on hosting a discussion/session at the Annual Meeting specifically about the fellowships – geared toward prospective applicants. It’s currently scheduled to be held as part of the Career Hub in the Exhibit & Poster Hall.
- What is exciting about the upcoming annual meeting in Denver, Colorado, especially for trainees?
Latrice Landry PhD, Genomic Medicine Fellow, Harvard Medical School, Career Development Committee Incoming Chair: The three things I am most looking forward to are 1) The RESEARCH: the exciting cutting edge research talks, building a PROFESSIONAL NETWORK of Geneticists, and the EXHIBITOR HALL – I love the feel of the hall, seeing the cutting edge technology and the freebees.
- What can trainees expect to get out of attending ASHG 2024?
Latrice Landry, PhD: Trainees should know what they will get out of the Annual Meeting what they put into it. If you are interested in building your network, then introducing yourself, walking up to people, asking questions and making connections at member’s posters is important. If you are trying to get an idea, work out a method, or find inspiration for your own research download the app and look at the program in advance to plan out your time. Also, be open-minded. At my first conference it was only about science. I didn’t know anyone else and just went to as many oral and poster sessions trying to absorb as much science as possible. As I have grown within the organization, I have formed more connections and grown my network. Some of this has resulted in collaborations, invitations and other professional opportunities.
- What events are targeted to trainees at ASHG 2024?
Latrice Landry, PhD: Trainees should look for all of the Career Development Sessions and the Career Development Resources in the Exhibitor’s Hall, the trainee reception, and the career development lunch/workshop. In past year’s resume workshops, career coaches, professional headshots and the amazing staff at the ASHG booth in the exhibitor’s hall have been big hits. Also note the trainee reception is always a great way to meet other trainees.
After asking the staff and committee members these questions, it quenched my thirst and I am very excited to attend the upcoming Annual Meeting at Denver, Colorado from Nov 5 – 9. Hopefully, all early career members and trainees are excited to attend and dive into the ocean of knowledge and opportunities ASHG provides.