The USF Department of Emergency Medicine Research Symposium is an annual academic forum designed to showcase the breadth of scholarly activity by department members. The symposium highlights original research, quality improvement initiatives, educational innovations, population health projects and other areas of research led by faculty, fellows, and residents. It serves as a platform to foster mentorship, collaboration, and academic development within and beyond the department. 

The symposium includes: 

• Keynote speaker 
• Oral presentations  
• Poster presentations  

The Research Symposium is intentionally structured as a supportive, growth-oriented academic experience. Abstracts are selected for oral and poster presentation at the symposium based on scientific rigor and potential impact. The symposium emphasizes constructive feedback, scholarly dialogue, and the development of projects for dissemination, publication, and future funding. 

Abstracts submitted to consideration for presentation at the symposium are reviewed by a multidisciplinary faculty review committee using a standardized scoring rubric focused on clarity, methodological rigor, innovation, and relevance. All presenters receive feedback intended to strengthen their work and encourage continued scholarly engagement. Mentorship opportunities are available throughout the submission and preparation process, particularly for early-career investigators and trainees. 

The Research Symposium reflects the department’s commitment to building a strong academic culture. By creating accessible opportunities for presentation and mentorship, the symposium supports investigators at all stages from early project conception to advanced dissemination and strengthens the department’s research mission. 

Residents, fellows, and faculty are encouraged to submit abstracts and participate as reviewers, mentors, or attendees. Additional information regarding abstract submission guidelines, review timelines, and symposium logistics is announced annually. 

For questions about the Research Symposium, please contact: 

Heather Henderson, PhD, MCAP

Director, Social EM, Population, and Global Health USF Department of Emergency Medicine 

Heather42@usf.edu