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Health Excellence Research Scholars (HERS)

Graduation ceremony for HERS Scholars: A group of people stands together in front of a projector screen displaying virtual attendees on Zoom, celebrating the scholars' achievements.The Health Excellence Research Scholars (HERS) program is an eight-month professional development initiative designed for early- to mid-career faculty who want to deepen their expertise in health systems research. We welcome participation from within Indiana University and outside institutions alike. Led by HEALeR and co-sponsored by the Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute (CTSI), the IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center and IU Health, this program equips participants with the knowledge and skills to address critical health challenges through research. Scholars will examine the wide range of factors that influence health across different communities and populations. They will develop skills to design research that leads to meaningful improvements in health and well-being for all. The program features a robust curriculum of expert-led, in-depth sessions designed to foster collaboration and cultivate a community of institutional leaders in learning health systems research. This opportunity is open to all eligible persons regardless of race, sex or other identity.

2026 HERS Program Timeline

Admissions Cycle Opens

Jan. 20

Complete the application when it goes live.

Application (open on Jan. 20)


Application Deadline

March 13

Completed applications must be received by this date to be considered for admission.

Decisions Notices

Late March

All applicants will be notified of their admissions decision via email around the end of March.

Program Kicks Off

April 24, 9:30–11 a.m. ET

 

Session 2

May 29, 9:30–11 a.m. ET

Session 3

June 26, 9:30–11 a.m. ET

Session 4

July 31, 9:30–11 a.m. ET

Session 5

Aug. 28, 9:30–11 a.m. ET

Session 6

Sept. 25, 9:30–11 a.m. ET

Session 7

Oct. 30, 9:30–11 a.m. ET

Cohort Wrap Up

Nov. 13, 9:30–11 a.m. ET

The program concludes with Session 8, completing the HERS training.