Behavioral Research in Diabetes Group Exchange (BRIDGE) is an invitational professional society of scientists involved in behavioral diabetes research that is independent from other organizations that support diabetes research.
BRIDGE was founded over 20 years ago by a group of behavioral researchers who were interested in discussing research ideas, dilemmas and concerns with their colleagues in an informal and supportive setting. BRIDGE has met annually since then. In July 2002, we became a not-for-profit corporation to address the needs of this ever-expanding group of researchers.
The BRIDGE annual meeting brings together many of the world’s leading behavioral scientists from North America and Western Europe who conduct diabetes research to discuss research that is in the planning or conceptual phases of development. It is a unique forum for exchange of innovative and cutting edge research ideas, and the meetings have yielded many valuable contributions to this important aspect of diabetes research, and have led to numerous funded grants, presentations at national conferences, and publications in peer-reviewed journals. In order to optimize discussion of innovation, rather than simply presentation of findings, the number of conference attendees is limited to fewer than 50 participants from our greater than 120 members. The upcoming conference will be held in February 6-9 2008 in Sedona, Arizona, USA at the Enchantment Resort and Spa. Competitive travel awards for trainees are available.
The principals behind the BRIDGE meeting are simple, but unique. The emphasis of this conference is on a lively and informal discussion of research ideas rather than on the formal presentation of results of completed projects. Every attendee must be willing to present their research. All research presented must be in the preliminary, planning and/or conceptual stages. No presentations of completed studies are accepted. All presenters must be prepared to ask their colleagues specific questions that will help guide/improve/facilitate their research project(s). No presentation technology (e.g., powerpoint or slides) is allowed.
Board of Directors
President
University of Connecticut Health Center
Division of Behavioral Sciences and Community Health
MC3910
263 Farmington Avenue
Farmington, CT 06030
Vice President
J.O. Ritchey Professor of Medicine
Indiana University School of Medicine
Division of Endocrinology & Metabolism
250 N University Blvd. Suite 122
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Secretary
David G. Schlundt, Ph.D. (Email)
Associate Professor of Psychology
Vanderbilt University
301 Wilson Hall
111 21st Avenue South
Nashville, TN 37203