ACLP Research Fellows

ACLP is launching an exciting new initiative - Research Fellows. This prestigious new advisory group will provide an opportunity to recognize leading researchers in the field of child life. 
 

Jessika Boles, PhD, CCLS, will be ACLP's first chief fellow. Jessika was chosen by the ACLP Board of Directors for her extensive research experience and contributions to the child life profession. Click here to view the entire 2020 Class of Research Fellows. 

2021 Class of ACLP Research Fellows

Apply to join the ACLP Research Fellows by October 1, 2021. Applicants can expect to hear results by October 20, 2021. 

Note: The Research Fellow application requires a resume and writing samples. Please review the materials needed before starting your application. 

Selection Criteria for Research Fellows 

• Certified Child Life Specialist
• Member of ACLP for at least the past 5 consecutive years
• Minimum of 3 publications in peer-reviewed journals
• PhD, and/or documented involvement in research design and conduct preferred
• Documented experience in research study design, research study execution, research analysis, and evidence-based practice
• Documented experience with academic writing
• Dedication to expanding the evidence base for child life practice
• Presentation experience at non-child life conferences preferred

Research Fellows Receive

• Honorary recognition as the highest/most exclusive ACLP membership level

• Special recognition at conference (walk in slides, badge ribbon, etc.)
• Special recognition on member profile
• Exclusive badge for ACLP Research Fellows (can be used in email signatures, on social media, resumes, other documents, etc.)

Research Fellows

• Provide subject matter expertise to ACLP on a consult basis
• Serve as informal mentors to aspiring child life researchers
• Serve as a research consultant to ACLP committees, task forces, or working groups (e.g. – educating a committee on the process of conducting a literature review)
• May be recruited to lead or participate in strategic projects (internal to ACLP or in partnership with other organizations)
• Maintain ACLP membership and certification in good standing 

Chief Fellow Role

• The first chief fellow will be appointed by the ACLP Board of Directors and serve for a term of 3 years. Subsequent chief fellows will be elected by a majority vote of all Research Fellows for a term of 3 years. An individual can be elected chief fellow multiple times but cannot serve more than 2 consecutive terms as chief fellow.
• The chief fellow will serve as a liaison and first point of contact between ACLP leadership and staff and the research fellows.
• The chief fellow is responsible for staying up to date on the skills and experiences available within the fellows and identifying gaps that might be filled by future fellow appointments.