Medical Scientist Training Program

Emory University, Atlanta GA

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

The Emory Medical Scientist Training Program leverages our institution’s comprehensive research programs and clinical training sites (university hospitals, Grady Hospital and Trauma Center, Veteran’s Administration Hospital, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, etc.) to create a unique, interdisciplinary dual degree training experience. Significant clinical exposure precedes graduate training to (a) ensure alignment of clinical and research objectives and (b) facilitate the transition to research-intensive residencies and lifelong careers as a physician-scientist. Training begins with thirty months of medical training (12 months of which comprise required clinical rotations), during which students also participate in a journal club, advising activities and research rotations that culminate in selecting a PhD advisor and program. During the PhD years, the MD/PhD Program tracks milestones (preliminary exams, formation of dissertation committee, completion of training in research ethics and reproducibility of research; publication requirements; re-entry timeline and residency advisement) to ensure consistent, rigorous training across all PhD paths and beyond. The MD/PhD Program also incorporates mentor-mentee check-ins several times a year to ensure supportive training environments and interventions as needed to ensure timely progress to degree. Doctoral advisors support longitudinal clinical exposure during the PhD; a smooth post-PhD transition to the final year of clinical training is managed through a Re-Entry Course. The MD/PhD Program is located within the School of Medicine’s Office of Medical Education and Student Affairs suite, allowing for prompt access to our Registrar, Financial Aid and wellness and academic support through the Center for Holistic Student Success that supports all School of Medicine students. Our partnership with the Laney Graduate School provides training opportunities in the Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, the Biomedical Engineering Program (joint program between Georgia Tech and Emory), doctoral programs within the Rollins School of Public Health, or in graduate programs of Emory College (e.g., Anthropology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology). Our monthly Clinical Research Conference offers opportunities for presentations and professional development activities for all students. An Executive Committee (which includes faculty from our participating schools and programs as well as student leadership representatives) provides oversight. Our Admissions Committee (which includes student representatives) reviews applications and ranks interview candidates based on academic fit to our medical and doctoral programs. An annual retreat provides opportunities for socializing and program evaluation, and all trainees have access to grant writing coursework.