MD/Ph.D

[iSeeKnowledge]

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First thread!

Alright, so I'm applying for an MD/PhD program after I'm done undergrad, and am currently getting involved in Research work and other experience things. But I was wondering is there like a minimal amount of Research one should get done in order to even be considered for the kinda program I'm trying to get admitted to? Maybe have like 3 or 4 research projects completed or something? I need to apply by June 2013, so realistically what are my odds of getting a good amount of research done; as in, how long does a research project usually take?

 

[LoveTheRunner]

ha. surely you jest.

 

[iSeeKnowledge]

ha. surely you jest.

very insightful

 

[LoveTheRunner]

just wanted to point out that claiming to want to do MD/PhD before ever becoming substantially involved is a bit... uh... odd? At least that was how I took your comment by "getting involved," as in "just starting out." but no there are not standards, and your limits will be set by how much time you want to put into your labs assuming your PI doesn't just want you to do grunt work. It's so variable it's a little pointless to say OK, goals met. But 2 years is enough time that if you commit yourself you could potentially get a pub or two and that is more than many can claim. Just get the process started first.

Edit - i've had projects from 3 months to 15 in the same lab. my friend has been working on something that's spanned 4 years. also variable

 

[iSeeKnowledge]

just wanted to point out that claiming to want to do MD/PhD before ever becoming substantially involved is a bit... uh... odd? At least that was how I took your comment by "getting involved," as in "just starting out." but no there are not standards, and your limits will be set by how much time you want to put into your labs assuming your PI doesn't just want you to do grunt work. It's so variable it's a little pointless to say OK, goals met. But 2 years is enough time that if you commit yourself you could potentially get a pub or two and that is more than many can claim. Just get the process started first.

Edit - i've had projects from 3 months to 15 in the same lab. my friend has been working on something that's spanned 4 years. also variable

Did someone hack your account just now?

But yea, thx for the input, I know it seems kinda wild but here's what I've been doing thinking I'm going to get into Med School... being a nerd studying 24/7 trying to keep my perfect GPA alive. And it still is, for 2 years.
But I decided to dig outside my bubble that I'm oh so comfortable in and poke around different places and ask counselors, etc. and they helped shed some light on the fact that I need more than a perfect GPA to get into something like MD/PhD.
Now, I've already started getting involved in a project I'll officially be a part of starting February. And I'm trying to take the remaining steps one by one, while also trying to maintain that perfect GPA still.

 

[IvyHopeful20]

Generally, two years of research is considered good. You should have a couple posters, while publication(s) are really nice though far from required. Generally, long term in 1-2 labs is better than lots of moving around.

 

[Catalystik]

From the What Are My Chances sticky at the top of SDN's Physician Scientist Forum: http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=539268

 

[iSeeKnowledge]

Much appreciated Catalystik, that was a pretty thorough read. Gives me a better overview on what to aim for. And now I'm thinking I'm going to extend my undergrad an extra year so I can improve my resume substantially. No one really goes through these things with you, a lot of it is up to you to find out. Especially when most of your friends are different majors.
This forum is a jewel. Thx again Catalystik.