Clinical Scientist Training Program for Residents
The Clinical Scientist Training Program for Residents (CSTP) 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: a longitudinal seminar, mentored research, and courses in clinical research methods. All participants complete 9 units of coursework over an 8-week period, typically during the summer months of the second year of residency. Generally, the time for this coursework is substituted for two electives in the residency training track in which the resident is enrolled. They also complete a 1-credit course in research ethics the following spring. In addition, participants 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 class work to obtain a 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 NIH has implemented a loan-forgiveness program for doctors who commit to a career in clinical research; CSTP residents may consider applying for this program when their residency is completed. Additional information about the CSTP for Residents Program may be obtained by contacting Dr. Kathleen McTigue. Please visit our application information page for more information on general application procedures.
