Project Mentor
Dr. Brenda Gellner
Department: Public Policy
Research Project Overview:
This project explores how the social constructions of physicians have evolved over time by examining media narratives and policy documents related to the healthcare profession. Using Schneider and Ingram’s social construction theory of target populations framework, we will analyze a curated set of sources, from historical texts and news articles to recent policy statements, to identify shifts in the portrayals of physicians. The focus will be on tracking changes in language, imagery, and the attribution of political power and moral deservingness over different periods. Although the project is in its early stages, it is designed to be adaptable as we refine our coding scheme and data collection methods.
Role of a SHARE Summer Apprentice:
The apprentice will contribute by supporting key research activities, including:
- Data collection: identifying and gathering relevant media articles, op-eds, policy documents, and other texts that reflect evolving portrayals of physicians
- Coding and content analysis: assisting in the development and application of a coding framework to capture evolving themes such as authority, autonomy, and moral deservingness
- Preliminary analysis: helping to quantify recurring themes and compile initial observations on how physicians are constructed across different time periods
Through these tasks, the apprentice will develop foundational skills in:
- Qualitative research methods and content analysis
- Systematically organizing and interpreting data from diverse sources
- Understanding theoretical frameworks that explain how social constructions evolve
- Communicating research findings both in written and oral formats
Summer Schedule/Time Commitment:
Hours: around 8-10 hours per week
Weekly meetings: participation in brief, regular check-ins (15-30 minutes) to maintain momentum and guide the research process
Milestone-driven approach: establish clear deadlines for key tasks
Flexibility: the schedule is adaptable to accommodate other summer commitments as long as the project milestones are met
Preferred Qualifications:
- Curiosity and initiative: students who are eager to learn new research skills, contribute creatively to the project, and engage critically with theoretical frameworks
- Attention to detail: individuals who are organized and capable of systematically managing data
- Effective communicators: strong written and verbal communicators, able to document findings and participate in virtual discussions
- Open-minded and engaged: students who are motivated by a genuine interest in the subject matter and enthusiastic about gaining hands-on research experience
To Apply:
The application opens on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Click here to submit an online application for this research apprenticeship through the Quest Portal. The application deadline is Friday, March 28, 2025, at 11:59pm.
Click here to view an outline of the general application questions. There are no additional questions for this apprenticeship application.
Please note:
All students hired for a SHARE Summer apprenticeship must complete a federal I-9 form and present original documents in person to OUR staff as part of the hiring process. Visit this U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services page for more information about acceptable documents. You cannot begin working until this is complete. Students are encouraged to plan ahead for this. For example, if you are going home for spring break, consider bringing original documents back to campus with you.