Medical Scientist Training Program holds annual spring retreat
The Medical Scientist Training Program at Penn State College of Medicine met with program alum Karen Smirnakis, MD, PhD, celebrated excellence with annual awards, and enjoyed peer networking opportunities during a retreat Saturday, April, 5.
Maryknoll Linscott, left, Ganesh Shenoy, Rahul Nachnani and Natella Maglakelidze received the Judith Bond MD/PhD Award.
The MD/PhD program’s co-directors, Kirsteen Browning, PhD, and Leslie Parent, MD, provided a welcome and update.
Dr. Smirnakis, the keynote speaker, talked to the group about her career journey. Dr. Smirnakis, a graduate of the MD/PhD program, is senior vice president, head of safety and regulatory operations, medical writing and benefit risk management at Biogen.
She shared candid memories and lessons with current trainees, staff and program leaders. Dr. Smirnakis also noted the excellent training she received while at the College of Medicine and how it set her up for success in residency and beyond.
The program leadership ended the retreat by announcing award winners:
- Judith Bond MD/PhD Award for outstanding achievement in research and clinical training
- 2025: Maryknoll Linscott, Natella Maglakelidze, Rahul Nachnani and Ganesh Shenoy
- Daniel Notterman Award for outstanding clinical research conference presentation
- 2025: Ana Hale, Havell Markus, Austin Montgomery, Elise Rizzi and Rhea Sullivan
Finally, Austin Montgomery announced the new Physician Scientist Student Association leaders.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MD/PHD PROGRAM
READ ABOUT THE MD/PHD PROGRAM’S 2025 MATCHES
Ana Hale, left, Austin Montgomery and Havell Markus received the David Notterman Award.
Elise Rizzi, left, and Rhea Sullivan also received the David Notterman Award.
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