What is SMDP? 
The one year career mentoring program serves high potential, future leaders who have demonstrated academic excellence and who are economically disadvantaged/underprivileged or underrepresented in the medical or life science communities (Undergraduate Juniors & Seniors, Baccalaureate, Master or Ph.D. & Post-doc and early career researchers). They are paired with industry mentors who work at companies in the medical technology, biotechnology and consumer healthcare industries.

With their mentors, the selected students (SMDP Scholars) attend a 5-day training session to learn about career opportunities in industry and receive career development coaching. They also attend a major industry conference.

The goals of the program for the mentors, mentees and partner companies are described in this presentation:   

  Video about SMDP
  SMDP Biotech Report 2010-2019
  SMDP MedTech Report 2012-2019
   SMDP Overview & Program Goals

Who may apply? 
Undergraduate Juniors & Seniors, Baccalaureate, graduate, PhD students or Post-Doctoral researchers who are economically disadvantaged/underprivileged or underrepresented in the medical or life science communities.

Applicants must be eligible to work permanently in the United States without needing a visa or sponsorship. The program application form lists the disciplines and skills we seek for each sector. 

How do SMDP Scholars receive mentoring?
With their mentors, SMDP Scholars develop a Personalized Mentoring Plan which includes goals and action items designed to prepare the SMDP Scholars for careers in the medical technology, biotechnology or consumer healthcare industries.

Mentor-mentee teams carry out their mentoring plans for a year following the SMDP training session. They communicate monthly once a month by phone, email and virtually, aided by ICPD staff and the SMDP Mentoring Portal, a web-based tool that supports mentor-mentee collaboration and communication.

How do I apply?

• Complete the online SMDP application form.
• Submit your resume and two letters of recommendation: one from a major instructor and one from your faculty advisor or a suitable substitute.
• Submit a 2-page personal narrative describing how you think SMDP will enhance your education and professional development. Also include your long-term career goals, academic goals, and research focus. Lastly, discuss how an industry mentor will impact your career and what you expect to gain.

How is SMDP publicized and how are applicants invited?
The International Center for Professional Development (ICPD) distributes information about the program through its websites and sends emails directly to universities and academic institutions across the United States and Puerto Rico. The SMDP Scholars Alumni have also become a large source for word of mouth referrals.

How are SMDP Scholars selected?
Scholar selection for each program is carried out by a committee of representatives from industry. Applicants are evaluated based on predetermined criteria. The committee's recommendations are compiled and a summary report is used to determine the final selection participants.

When will I be notified of my selection status?
Biotech Applicants will be informed of their selection status the beginning of May and MedTech applicants will be informed of their selection status the beginning of September.