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Laboratory Notes From Behavioral Pharmacologists and Trainees: Considerations for the Discipline
Rick A Bevins1, Scott T Barrett1, Brady M Thompson1
1University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Behavior Analysis (Washington, D.C.)
|December 13, 2016
Summary
Behavioral pharmacology training needs to broaden scope and incorporate advanced statistical tools to address reproducibility challenges. Enhanced training positions scientists for leadership in multidisciplinary, translational research teams.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral pharmacology
- Translational science
- Scientific training
Background:
- Trainees in behavioral pharmacology face challenges including funding and job prospects.
- Discussions focused on constructive solutions rather than problems.
- Need to enhance the capacity of behavioral pharmacologists for multidisciplinary collaboration.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify strategies to address challenges in behavioral pharmacology training.
- Enhance the skills of future behavioral pharmacologists for leadership roles.
- Improve the rigor and impact of behavioral pharmacology research.
Main Methods:
- Laboratory meetings and discussions among trainees and faculty.
- Focused on identifying actionable solutions for training challenges.
- Explored the integration of broader training areas and advanced statistical tools.
Main Results:
- Broadening training enhances collaboration in multidisciplinary teams.
- Balancing breadth and depth in training is crucial for success.
- Behavioral pharmacologists can lead discussions on research reproducibility.
- Advanced statistical training is vital for modern research demands.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral pharmacologists require broader training and advanced statistical skills.
- Enhanced training prepares scientists for leadership in translational research.
- Improved communication of research impact is essential for the field's growth.
- Mentoring and training are improved through explicit discussion of challenges and solutions.
