Better Foundation

Consider this path if:

• You are curious and want to answer big questions
• You are considering a career that includes research as a core component—even if you have no previous research experience.
• You want to work with leaders in their fields who are excited to mentor students
• You would like to learn about academic medicine in a leading research institution

The Scientific Discovery Path of Excellence helps prepare students seeking careers as physician-scientists. Through project-based mentorship, students are exposed to concepts in basic science, clinical or health services research, public health and other scientific areas. They will also attend small group sessions focused on career development for future physician-scientists and academic physicians. Through these experiences, Path students are encouraged to identify and refine their career goals and gain the knowledge and experiences necessary for pursuing them.

Through this Path, students learn to:

• Apply the scientific method to address important questions in health and health care
• Present high-quality research in a clear and compelling way 
• Understand the types of research and research careers available to physicians 
• Identify specific steps towards a career in research, tailored to one’s own interests and goals

Highlights

Students are encouraged to join this Path in the winter of M1 year, or at the beginning of M3 year. The initial focus of the Path is the selection of a research mentor and project. Students then have dedicated time during the curriculum to plan, undertake and discuss progress in their individual projects. Research projects may qualify to fulfill the Capstone for Impact graduation requirement.

Presenting at national scientific meetings and publication of research projects are encouraged but not required to complete the path.