1. VA Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans
Research Practicum in Mental Illness Research and Treatment
The Center of Excellence (COE) at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Waco branch is now accepting
applications for its one-year Research Practicum training program at the undergraduate level. This research
position runs concurrently with the Baylor academic year and requires a minimum commitment of two
semesters.
Current research focuses on the assessment and treatment of mental health problems in returning war
veterans and their families. Investigators have a particular interest in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and
Substance Abuse. There are 4 Cores available for students: Assessment, Treatment Development & Treatment
Outcome, and Education & Dissemination. Students may be assigned primarily to one study and mentor but
will likely be involved in multiple research projects.
Students will have the opportunity to be involved in several aspects of research including, but not limited to:
data entry and management, interactions with veterans participating in research projects, and weekly staff
meetings. There is an educational component to the practicum in which students will be exposed to current
research involving veterans and will have the opportunity to pursue their own individual research interests
during the second semester. Particularly motivated students may also have the opportunity to develop those
interests into poster presentations at local or national conferences and/or potential publication. Additionally,
upon demonstrated satisfactory progress during the first semester, successful students will be given the
opportunity to gain advanced hours credit by enrolling in PSY/NSC 4V96 or 3V90.
Requirements for the Veterans Affairs Center of Excellence Research Practicum:
1. Interested and motivated in gaining research experience
2. Completed Research Methods (PSY 2405) and Statistics (PSY 2402) or equivalent
3. Committed to 9 hours per week for 2 semesters
4. Enroll in 4V96 (Dr. Dolan) or 3V90 for Fall & Spring Semester
5. If an offer is extended to the student after the interview, the student must complete all required
paperwork within 30 days
Contact person:
Jack Tsan, Ph.D.
Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans
4800 Memorial Drive (151C)
Waco, TX 76711
(254) 297-3000, ext: 55606
Jack.Tsan@va.gov