The Global Health Study Program (GHSP) was approved in February 2008 to meet the growing demand from Duke medical students for a centralized resource for information, mentors, funding, and research opportunities related to Global Health (GH). In collaboration with the Duke Global Health Institute (DGHI), the GHSP facilitates connections for students with research opportunities at Duke’s GH field sites, including international partners and locations offering appropriate opportunities. The Institute focuses on seven signature research initiatives with global reach. The program also connects students to Duke faculty with GH expertise, such as those whose research focuses on infectious diseases, epidemiology, clinical microbiology, translational medicine and social science.  The GH Study Program, as with all Third Year Study Programs, requires a thesis that demonstrates quantitative expertise, regardless of the discipline chosen.  Students will work with a project mentor, usually a Duke Faculty member, to develop and conduct research that is of benefit both to the community collaborator and to the educational goals of the student. DGHI and SOM collaborate to provide pre-departure orientation and academic support while students are engaged in their work.  For more information, please contact the GH Third Year Study Program Coordinator.

NOTE: Students wishing to conduct research at an international site that is not related to global health and/or health disparities, or who would be best mentored under another study program, may find more appropriate mentorship through another Third Year Study Program.

Limited funding will be available for Third Year students undertaking research projects related to global health. While preference will be given to students participating in the GH Study Program and working at DGHI field sites, all relevant proposals will be considered.



GHSP Faculty Mentors        Program Director: Megan Huchko, MD, MPH