Trainees

Welcome to ASHG’s Trainee and Career Resources Page! 

Monika Schmidt
Chair, Training & Development Committee
PhD candidate, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto

I am studying the molecular mechanisms of mutation in repeat sequences responsible for disorders such as myotonic dystrophy and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Energetic, perseverant, organized

Welcome and thank you for your interest in the American Society of Human Genetics. ASHG is the leading professional organization for human genetics specialists globally, as evidenced by its diverse and highly active membership.

Understanding the natural world, improving life for all beings, and advocating for what is right and fair, are among the underlying motivations for conducting sound genetic research. ASHG is committed to upholding these principles – discover, educate, advocate – and provides extensive year-round resources to members globally.

When I attended my first ASHG meeting in 2014, I was completely overwhelmed by the wealth of trainee and early-career scientist-specific opportunities at the Annual Meeting. Only after the meeting did I come to appreciate the abundance of highly relatable online resources. Soon I came to recognize that trainees are involved in all aspects of ASHG: we are represented on every committee! I am honoured to have served the Training and Development Committee (TDC) for the past two years, and look forward to sharing with you, an ASHG member, the new resources and activities the TDC is presently developing.

Take a moment to browse the resources available on the ASHG webpage, such as trainee skill-set development resources, networking and job opportunities, awards and fellowships, career path-specific interviews, and more. The TDC continues to develop dynamic online resources in response to the needs of members, all of which are available to ASHG trainee members.

Do you have an idea to share or a question in mind? Please feel free to drop any one of the Trainee Leaders a line. Interested in becoming more involved? ASHG has numerous leadership opportunities which benefit from a diversity of views and experiences, so be sure to put forward your application in the autumn!

Genetic research is facing a challenging time of tight funding and reproducibility crises, among others. As we navigate these challenges and the ramifications of rapidly developing genetic technologies, we must provide the upcoming generation of genetic scientists with outstanding mentorship, training, and open forums of discussion and collaboration. Please join us in this endeavor.

Wishing you all the best,