Build, refine, and advance your research with expert mentorship
The SDBP Research Scholars Symposium is an intensive, two‑day “research in progress” program designed to support investigators at multiple career stages who are developing research in child development, behavior, or mental health. The Symposium is led by interprofessional, senior SDBP faculty with extensive research experience and is held immediately prior to the SDBP Annual Meeting.
New for 2026!
Key Details
- Dates: October 23–24, 2026
- Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
- Timing: Immediately prior to the SDBP Annual Meeting
- Applications open: March 18, 2026
- Application deadline: May 2, 2026 at 11:59 PM EDT
- Spots available: Approximately 15–20 scholars
Who Should Apply
The Research Scholars Symposium is intended for individuals with active research interests in child development, behavior, or mental health, including:
- Advanced trainees, such as postdoctoral fellows or fellows in programs with a substantial research component
- Early‑career / junior faculty, within 5 years of completing fellowship or postdoctoral training
- Mid‑career faculty, beyond 5 years of completed training who are actively seeking to advance their research trajectory
Applicants may come from developmental‑behavioral pediatrics or related medical, psychological, educational, or allied health fields.
What Scholars Can Expect
Accepted scholars will participate in a highly interactive program that includes:
- Individualized feedback on research in progress from senior SDBP mentors
- Small‑group proposal review and peer discussion
- Research methodology sessions and topical lectures
- Career‑stage–tailored research and career development didactics
- Networking with senior investigators and fellow scholars across disciplines
Scholars are assigned to small tables with faculty mentors and peers and are expected to both present their work and provide feedback to others.
Eligibility Summary
Applicants must:
- Hold a doctoral or terminal degree (e.g., MD, PhD, PsyD)
- Be an advanced trainee, junior faculty member, or mid‑career faculty member
- Be a current 2026 SDBP member, or have a completed membership application under review
- Register for and attend the 2026 SDBP Annual Meeting if accepted
Applicants unsure about eligibility are encouraged to contact info@sdbp.org.
Applications open mid-March
Eligible members—particularly mid‑career faculty interested in advancing or re‑engaging in research—are encouraged to apply.