These achievements are complemented by UNC's strengths in imaging and radiation treatment planning, information and cognitive sciences, decision sciences and decision support systems, clinical databases, and public health informatics. The program offers predoctoral and postdoctoral opportunities for applicants from clinical backgrounds or from engineering or computer science backgrounds. The training program is structured so that trainees benefit from the strengths of both institutions. The joint program creates an environment that offers a unique opportunity for trainees to participate in cutting-edge research in the application of information technology to both patient care and education. The training programs at Duke and at UNC are administered separately.
Students apply, enroll, and receive degrees from one institution.
However, the curricula interdigitate, allowing students to capitalize on the strengths at both institutions. Students enjoy almost unlimited cross registration and a biweekly research seminar in which both institutions participate by teleconference. Many students have faculty from both institutions on their thesis or dissertation committees. Stephen Downs, MD , is the Director of the Training Program in Medical Informatics. Dr. Downs is assisted in administrative activities by Ms. Eve Juliano , Director of the Educational Technology Group.