Training Graduate-Level Pediatric Psychology Researchers at Case Western Reserve University: Meeting the Challenges of the New Millennium

Objective To describe the challenges in training graduate-level pediatric psychology re-searchers for successful careers and to discuss solutions. Methods We reviewed experi-ences in training graduate students at Case Western Reserve University to identify key chal-lenges in research training and potential strategies to meet them. Results We identified the following key challenges: stimulating graduate students ’ career interest in pediatric psy-chology research; teaching students about the pragmatic challenges of conducting research in pediatric settings, specialized research design, and data analytic issues; helping students to de-velop essential research skills; developing opportunities for student research-related collabora-tions; helping students develop professional identities as researchers; and developing and sup-porting their research careers beyond graduate school. Conclusions Useful strategies for meeting these challenges include involving an interdisciplinary faculty in research training; developing specialized training methods that focus on critical research skills such as writing and data analysis; peer support; and involvement with multiple mentors who are successful researchers. Pediatric psychologists should also develop opportunities for the next generation of researchers by facilitating research job options and leadership opportunities