ABSTRACT

An increasing number of undergraduates, medical, nursing and allied health students, medical residents and students of other disciplines are interested in conducting research during the course of short-term global health electives, either as their primary focus or in addition to other service or educational activities. This chapter reviews what is typically involved in global health research conducted by trainees on short-term experiences in global health. Like the concept of research, global health may also be understood in a variety of ways, often emphasizing international medicine, tropical disease or international public health. For their own professional development, trainees should seek as many opportunities to present their research as possible. The more presentations they give, the more individuals they will reach and the more constructive input they will receive related to their research project. A presentation of the research protocol before their elective begins can be a valuable chance to receive feedback.