Clinical Scientist Training Program for Residents
The Clinical Scientist Training Program (CSTP) for Residents is designed to prepare outstanding residents for a career in academic medicine and clinical investigation by providing them with opportunities to learn and practice clinical research skills during their residency training in internal medicine.
The program has three main components: mentored research, a longitudinal seminar, and courses in clinical research methods. All participants take 9 units of coursework over an 8-week period, typically during the summer months of the second year of residency. Generally, they complete this coursework instead of completing two electives in the residency training track in which they are enrolled. Participants also take a 1-credit course on research ethics the following spring. In addition, they complete a mentored clinical research project over the course of their residency. The ultimate goals are for residents to complete their research, present one or more abstracts at regional or national meetings, and prepare a manuscript for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. Upon completion of the program requirements, residents may also pursue further coursework to obtain the Certificate in Clinical Research.
The tuition for this program is covered for up to three positions each year. Prospective applicants who have received an invitation to interview for a position in the Internal Medicine Residency Program should apply to the CSTP prior to their scheduled interview. Because the recruitment and training of clinician-researchers is such a high priority at the current time, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has implemented a loan-forgiveness program for doctors who commit to a career in clinical research. Individuals in the CSTP may consider applying for the loan forgiveness program when their residency is completed. Additional information about the CSTP for Residents can be obtained by contacting Dr. Kathleen McTigue. For more information on application procedures, please visit our application information page.
