Psychiatry Research Residency Training Track

University Of California, San Diego, La Jolla CA

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

This application responds to PAR-20-094 and seeks renewed R25 support for MH101072, UCSD’s “Psychiatry Residency Research Track” (RRT) to stimulate academic psychiatrists to conduct research into the causes and treatments of mental illness. This R25, first funded in 2013, was renewed in 2018 with a “10” priority score. In FY 6-9, 100% of the Residents who had “matched” into this RRT in FY1-5 graduated into “triple threat” positions: 6 are Faculty (5 with Career Development Awards plus significant private funding) and one is a PGY5 Fellow. Two “internal” trainees joined the RRT mid-Residency. This renewal application builds on the strengths of FY1-9 and the scientific expertise of UCSD faculty to sustain an RRT that is both substantive and innovative. In FY11-15, MH101072 will achieve the goals of the NIMH Council report, “Investing in the Future,” and of this FOA by expanding the pool of Psychiatric researchers - a key step towards improving treatment and outcome for mental disorders. Specific Aim: To recruit and educate the highest caliber future psychiatric researchers. A systematic and energetic recruitment process will match 2 outstanding young medical scientists per year into the RRT. These trainees will complete a 4-year program with increasing protected research time over the PGY2 (17%), PGY3 (40%) and PGY4 (70%), though core programs effectively extend these percentages. Clearly defined, developmentally appropriate “benchmarks” are set for each of the 4 training years and are achieved with careful mentorship from dedicated and accomplished full-time faculty. A primary research mentor is selected during the PGY1; the PGY2 starts by connecting trainees with their laboratory in a dedicated 2-block rotation, followed by longitudinal projects that span the PGY2. PGY3-4 seminars provide solid grounding in research design, data analysis, manuscript preparation and responsible conduct of research. Trainees learn academic survival skills and receive thoughtful supervision and personalized career mentorship. The core curriculum, detailed in this application, strengthens and sustains trainees' career connection with mental health research and the core missions of the NIMH. Procedures are in place for frequent, careful evaluations of trainees, mentors and all major aspects of the RRT program. Oversight of the RRT is provided by engaged internal and external advisory boards. In FY11-15, innovative changes will solidify trainee research funding, build vertical cohesiveness across the RRT and engage RRT graduates in early career mentorship activities. With renewed support, MH101072 will admit 10 new RRT trainees, graduate 9 trainees (5 current + 4 new), leaving 8 trainees “in the pipeline” to complete their training via renewed R25 or DoP support. This will bring the total yield of MH101072 (FY1-15) to 30 RRT graduates. This RRT will provide individualized oversight of each trainee in an innovative format that will accelerate their paths towards faculty positions and career research funding and thereby achieve the goals of this NIMH program.