Consultation Program
Unlock Expertise. Advance Your Career. Enrich Your Research.
Welcome to the Society of Behavioral Medicine’s Consultation Program, a distinctive member benefit designed to provide direct access to a diverse range of experts across the fields of Academic, Industry, and Later Stage and Continuing Career Development. This program embodies the value SBM places on fostering professional growth, innovation, and collaboration within our community. Our newly enhanced platform ensures a seamless connection, making it easier than ever to find the right expert for your needs.
Exclusive Member Benefit
This service is an exclusive perk of SBM membership, underlining the Society's commitment to supporting its members at every stage of their career. From intricate grant writing to navigating the transition between academia and industry, our consultation program offers personalized guidance that can propel your professional trajectory. To participate, ensure your SBM membership is current, then dive into the wealth of knowledge and experience waiting behind our member portal.
Interested in Becoming a Consultant?
If you're interested in sharing your expertise with the SBM community, we welcome new consultants across all types and topics. Reach out to Andrew Schmidt at aschmidt@sbm.org to join our network of experts.
Why Engage?
- Tailored Expertise: Access a broad spectrum of specialists for advice that’s precisely relevant to your unique challenges.
- Career Advancement: Leverage the insights and experiences of seasoned professionals to navigate critical career decisions.
- Community Support: Benefit from the collective wisdom of the SBM community, fostering a culture of mutual growth and support.
How It Works
- Select Your Consultation Type: Choose from Academic, Industry, or Later Stage and Continuing Career Development to align with your current focus.
- Explore Topics: Each type offers a curated list of topics, reflecting the latest trends and challenges in the field.
- Connect with Specialists: For each topic, SBM has gathered individuals with specialized expertise, ready to share their insights and advice.
Consultation Types & Topics
Academic
Dive into academic excellence with topics ranging from foundational grant writing to innovative research methodologies:
- Grant Writing (NIH Specific)
- Grant Writing (non-NIH sources)
- Teaching
- Digital Health/Technology
- Methods and Measurement
- Dissemination and Implementation Science
- Clinical Care
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Community/Participatory Research
- General Career Consultation
And explore a series of "International Focus" topics specifically designed to address training gaps identified by our international student and early-career members:
- How to Select a Funding Agency and Mechanism for Your First Grant
- How to Respond to Peer Review Comments for Papers
- How to Deliver an Oral Presentation in the Conference Setting
- How to Give a Job Talk
- Transitioning to Faculty
- Balancing Academia and Caregiver Responsibilities
Academic Sample Inquiries:
"Considering a physical activity intervention for young adult cancer survivors. Between measure A or B, which is preferable?"
"As a new assistant professor awarded an R21, how can I get invited to review for ACS or NIH?"
"Leading a new educational initiative in my department. What criteria are vital for decision-making?"
"Expanding research on survivorship care planning for breast cancer patients. Are these specific aims for an R03 innovative?"
Industry
Bridge the gap between academia and industry with targeted advice on:
- General Career Advice
- Job Prep Advice
- Transforming CV to Resume
- Accessing Industry Jobs
- Industry Consultancy
- Start-Up Culture
- Corporate Culture
- Industry Grant Writing
- Publishing Within Industry
- Industry Transitions
- Academic/Industry Partnerships
Industry Sample Inquiries:
"Transitioning from an academic to an industry role in behavioral science. What key skills should I highlight on my resume and during interviews?"
"Considering a start-up opportunity in digital health. What are the critical cultural differences I should prepare for compared to traditional academic settings?"
"Exploring partnership opportunities between my university and a tech company for a mental health app. What are the best practices for establishing a successful academic/industry collaboration?"
"Interested in consulting within the behavioral science industry. How do I position myself as an expert and what networking strategies should I employ?"
Later Stage and Continuing Career Development
Navigate the complexities of later career stages with topics such as:
- Transitioning into/out of Academic Administration
- Late Career Changes
- Retirement Planning
- Board Service
- Coping with Aging and Generational Shifts
- Implementation Research
- Community-Engaged Research
- Interdisciplinary Applications
Late Stage and Continuing Career Development Samples:
"Approaching retirement but wish to remain active in the field. What opportunities exist for emeritus professors to contribute to ongoing research or mentorship programs?"
"Considering a late career shift from academic research to a more administrative role. What skills and experiences should I emphasize to make this transition smoother?"
"Navigating generational changes in my research team. How can I better understand and mentor the next generation of researchers to ensure continuity and innovation?"
"Interested in joining a non-profit board related to behavioral health. What should I consider in terms of commitment, impact, and alignment with my professional goals?"
Program Guidelines
To ensure a productive consultation experience, please adhere to the following:
- Make an Informed Inquiry: Conduct preliminary research in your area of interest to frame a well-informed question.
- Choose Wisely: Select a consultant whose expertise closely matches your needs.
- Be Specific: Provide clear and concise information to facilitate informed advice.
- Brief Interactions: Expect succinct yet insightful responses tailored to your query.
Remember: Indicate “SBM Consultation Request” in your email subject line.
Ready to Enhance Your Research and Career?
For Members: Log in here to access this exclusive consultation program and begin your journey towards enhanced professional development.
Not a Member? Join SBM today to unlock this valuable perk, among many others, and be part of a vibrant community dedicated to the advancement of behavioral medicine.