The training course, led by Dr. Javier Riancho Zarrabeitia, will take place on October 27 and 28 and November 3 and 4 at the Palacio de Arce and will address key aspects for those beginning their research careers
The Marqués de Valdecilla Research Institute (IDIVAL) is organizing the third edition of the Research Introduction Course, a training course led by Dr. Javier Riancho Zarrabeitia that offers a practical approach to different aspects related to scientific research and the development of a research career.
The course will take place on October 27 and 28 and November 3 and 4 at the Palacio de Arce, with a programme covering everything from basic tools for conducting and communicating research to data analysis and the different options available for progressing during the early stages of a scientific career.
The first session, on October 27, will focus on quality indicators, databases and reference management tools. Following the presentation of the course, participants will explore the importance of research, academic careers and quality indicators in science. The programme will also include sessions on PubMed and other biomedical databases, as well as the use of reference management tools such as Mendeley.
On October 28, the course will focus on scientific communication, with practical sessions on preparing a scientific poster, an oral presentation and a scientific article.
The third session, on November 3, will be dedicated to data analysis. It will address the ethical and legal aspects that must be taken into account when working with patient data, including a practical session using a database of patients with multiple sclerosis. An introduction to the SPSS software will also be provided, focusing on the analysis of this type of data.
The final session, on November 4, is entitled “I want to start doing research” and will focus particularly on the first steps in a research career. The programme includes a practical workshop on preparing abstracts for conferences, a session on completing a PhD from a first-hand perspective, and another on applying for postdoctoral research contracts. The session will conclude with a presentation on IDIVAL as a partner at the beginning of a research career, given by Dr. Marcos López Hoyos, followed by the course conclusions and closing session.
The course has a maximum capacity of 20 places, which will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and registration is free of charge. To participate, applicants must send an email to iniciacioninvestigacioncurso@gmail.com. Attendance at a minimum of 75% of the sessions is also required.
The third edition continues an IDIVAL training initiative whose second edition was held in 2025, with a programme likewise aimed at providing healthcare and research professionals with the basic tools and knowledge needed to begin their scientific careers.
