Competency Levels
| Level | Competency |
| Prerequisite | Minimal working knowledge or skill. Has minimum familiarity with basic sciences, including chemistry, biochemistry, physiology, human anatomy, physics, and molecular biology. May have some skills applicable to one or more domains. |
| Level 1, introductory | Some functional knowledge or skill but usually requires guidance or input from more experienced users. At this level, develops understanding and application of key concepts well enough to effectively communicate and interact with those more expert within specific domain. |
| Level 2, novice | Still developing but has sufficient knowledge or skill to function autonomously most of the time. Capable of using information, knowledge, and skills to develop independent research. Identifies when assistance is needed. |
| Level 3, expert | Uses knowledge or skill to increase understanding in area. Uses knowledge and skills to design and implement innovative research. Applies concepts to problem solving associated with primary research. Rarely needs assistance. |
| Level 4, master | Established or recognized expert whose input is sought by others within field. Established innovator. |
Each competency listed is designed to be taught to or for a particular level of expertise, as defined in table. Competency levels are defined as standard of reference for development of students’ expertise, as adapted from Bloom (5). It is estimated that core competency in specific domains for molecular imaging students should include competency levels 1 and 2. Areas of specialization should approach level 3. Level 4 is developed after completion of essential basic education and significant practice in field of expertise.