Digital Pathology Observership Grant

The Digital Pathology Observership Grant offers CAP Junior Members (with a minimum of three years of residency training) hands-on exposure to the ways in which AI solution platforms are being used to examine digital pathology images for specific tissue classes, features, and pathologies not easily quantified using traditional image analysis techniques.

Applicants must have prior exposure to and a keen interest in learning more about the use of computers to aid in analyzing and quantitating pathology images to reach a diagnosis or facilitating second opinions.

The experience offers grantees the opportunity to:

1. Quantitate expression of protein biomarkers such as PD-L1.
2. Quantitate different cell types such as tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes.
3. Apply findings to help select patients for clinical trials or new drug treatments, to include gaging the level of patient benefit.

Under the direction of the Astra Zeneca pathology team at the Gaithersburg, Maryland, research facility, recipients will observe, interact, and perform case study evaluations during a two-week program. Dates to be scheduled based on Astra Zeneca personnel availability, project timing, and resources.

This grant opportunity will take place in 2022 and consist of two parts:

• Part I – One week onsite at the Gaithersburg Astra Zeneca facility; followed by
• Part II – One week of virtual case review

During the training period, participants will:

• Become familiar with the application of image analysis and artificial intelligence to pathology-assisted drug development.
• Become familiar with the use of Halo AI image analysis tools.
• Become familiar with annotating cell types from H&E images.
• Train an AI algorithm to automatically score expression of a protein biomarker in human tumor tissue.
• Learn more about the role of and career opportunities for pathologists working in the pharmaceutical industry.

Funding to support the two-week training period is available for travel, living expenses, and miscellaneous items needed for training. Awardees and/or their institutions should expect to cover any travel costs that exceed the amount awarded.

Eligibility

CAP Junior Members who have completed a minimum of three years of residency at the time of the advanced training are eligible for this grant. Applicants will be considered regardless of age, race, gender, national origin, or religion.

Applicants who meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:

• Have completed a minimum of three years of residency in anatomic pathology
• Have prior exposure to digital pathology
• Possess a deep interest in learning more about AI as it applies to pathology

To Apply

Submit the following materials with your completed application by March 31, 2022:

1. Your residency program director’s signature (invite this individual as a collaborator on your application).
2. A letter of recommendation and documentation from your residency program director confirming that your salary and benefits will be supported during the award period.
3. Your responses to the following:
   • Your background/experience and interest in digital pathology
   • Your interest in AI as it applies to pathology
   • Why this experience is desired
   • How it will enhance your training in pathology
   • How you will use this experience to benefit society and the practice of pathology
   • Why you require CAP Foundation financial support and a delineation of the other means of support available to you
4. Curriculum vitae
5. Professional headshot

The headshot will be used in Foundation web and print media for awardee recognition and should meet the following requirements: 1+ megabyte, color, professional dress, neutral background. No selfies, please.