EMRAP

The Emergency Medicine Research Associate Program (EMRAP) is a clinical & epidemiological research program operated in conjunction with the Emergency Medicine Residency program at Kern Medical in Bakersfield, CA.

Founded by Drs. Paul Walsh, Tom Purcell and Rick McPheeters in 2004, EMRAP provides Kern County undergraduate and post-baccalaureate students with a unique opportunity to contribute directly to research projects in Emergency Medical Services and our Level 2 Trauma Center through first-hand experience with patient interaction and close mentorship by emergency medicine residency & faculty members.

During each shift, Research Associates have the ability to interact with patients, medical students, resident physicians, faculty physicians and emergency department auxiliary staff—observing, shadowing, obtaining consent and collecting data for multiple studies in the process. Research Associates also gain knowledge in the methodology of clinical and epidemiological research through weekly lecture series, headed by EMRAP Director Dr. Daniel Quesada.

In addition to being an integral part of the workings of the Department of Emergency Medicine, EMRAP strives to prepare students as future leaders and healthcare professionals, and promote a holistic understanding of clinical emergency medicine, clinical research and our community’s public health needs.

While participating in EMRAP, veteran Research Associates can pursue leadership opportunities by serving as Research Study Liaisons for selected research projects, thereby playing a key role in the implementation and integrity of research protocols for the studies.

Benefits to being a part of EMRAP:

• Experience in clinical research & quality improvement initiatives
• One-on-one patient interaction
• Understanding of emergency department systems and operations
• Working with emergency medicine faculty, residents and auxiliary staff
• Learning medical terminology and laboratory tests
• Learning about signs and symptoms of diseases
• Potential letters of recommendation from faculty
• Course credit (CSUB students)
• Transcript notation
• Year-round instruction
• Flexible shift availability, schedule shifts around exams, or other obligations!
• Veteran Research Associates may advance to leadership or be asked to do special projects as opportunities arise.