Location: Safety Assessment, Bldgs. 45 and 81, West Point , PA

Mentors: Bob Peiffer, Bill Cook  

Duration: 3 weeks (flexible)

Qualifications:

            Participant in an approved residency program (residents in training outside of the US are encouraged to apply)

 Objectives:

1.      To provide experience in ophthalmic examination of  laboratory rodents, rabbits, dogs and monkeys

2.      To provide exposure to the pharmaceutical industry and insight into ocular toxicology as a possible career path

 Activities:

1.      Supervised examination of species listed above to  enhance diagnostics of spontaneous lesions and potential   adverse drug effects

2.      Participation in regularly scheduled toxicology and pathology meetings, rounds, and seminars

3.      Tutorial review of ocular pathology (with Dr. Peiffer)-optional

4.      Attend weekly rounds and pathology readout sessions at Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania-optional

5.      Involvement in basic science research/drug development  programs in glaucoma, retinal angiogenesis, and/or neuroprotection-optional

Support:

            Merck will provide a stipend of $4000 to the resident’s program to reimburse travel and living expenses

 To apply:

            Letter of interest and intent and CV of the applicant and a letter of verification and support from the program director sent to Dr. Bob Peiffer, Merck and Co., WP45-226, P.O. Box 4, West Point PA 19586, < robert_peiffer@merck.com >, Ph      215.652.8949, FAX 215.652.9307. Please propose a minimum of two time periods for the externship.

             Deadline for application: 15 Sept 2007

             Awards will be announced by 15 Oct 2007