Welcome to the Junior Section

About:

The Society for Pediatric Research Junior Section introduces residents, fellows and early career faculty members to SPR by providing a variety of resources and educational opportunities. The goal is to promote networking within pediatrics and continue the development of scientists, as well as to foster transition to a career in pediatric science and eligibility for SPR Active Member status.

Junior Membership is open to individuals who are currently enrolled in or not more than six years graduated from an established residency, fellowship or postdoctoral program related to pediatrics in an academic institution. Consideration is given to Junior applicants who are six years past fellowship to extend their eligibility based on parental leave or other causes for lapses in research or research training similar to criteria used to extend one’s NIH ESI status. 

The information below will be requested when submitting an application/nomination:

• Applicant's personal and professional contact information.
• Applicant's residency, fellowship, or postdoctoral completion date or anticipated completion date.
• Applicant's Program Director (Residents/Fellows) or Department Chair's (Junior Faculty) contact information.

Eligibility:

Currently enrolled in or not more than six years graduated from an established residency, fellowship, or postdoctoral program related to pediatrics in an academic institution.

Any incomplete applications will be deleted after six months from the initial application date.

Benefits for SPR Junior Section:

• Aids fellows in transition from fellowship to faculty through a variety of programs including:
  • SPR Grant Writing 101 Program provides intensive, hands-on support for early career stage investigators.
  • SPR Bridging to Success Award grant provides critical financial support as researchers transition to independent researcher status.
  • SPR PRomotion of FellOwS‘ PEdiatric Research (PROSPER) Diversity Award  provides material support and mentoring for a one-year pediatric research project that will facilitate an academic research-focused career trajectory for fellows from under-represented minority background(s).
• Supports transition to SPR Active Member status.
• Professional networking key to achieving independent researcher status.
• Opportunities for participation in regional/national SPR programs.
• Recognition through an extensive awards program and travel grants.
• Opportunities to advocate for child health research funding.
• Dues-free professional society membership.

The Junior Section is led by a President and a President-Elect who are currently in a fellowship program. Together, they work with the SPR leadership to manage and enhance the Junior Section. The call for President-elect applications occurs each July.