MDPhD or just MD

[ddl42]

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I was accepted into the MD program at my school and will be beginning in Aug 2009. I've been very interested in research during my undergrad years, and would like to continue researching in the future. I have just been torn about whether to go back and complete my BS degree over the next two summers, and apply for the MD/PhD program...or just not worry about it and go ahead with only the MD. I guess my question is just about what kinds of research MDs can do. How does the research portion of a residency work? If I sound illiterate on the whole matter of the residency years, it is because I am. My main contact at the medical school has been out of the office for weeks because of her mother's health. Any help on the matter would be great. Thanks!

 

[gstrub]

Search for MD vs MDPHD in the threads and you will find many, many answers to this question.

What are you talking about going back and completing your "BS" over the next two summers? Won't you already hold a bachelors this year if you've been accepted?

 

[maduram]

How does the research portion of a residency work?

Research in residency varies based on (1) what field you are in, and (2) whether you match into a community or academic-based residency program. On average, you will have a sum total of 6 weeks of dedicated research time during your 3-4 years of residency. You'll have more research time if you do a fellowship after residency or decide to join a joint residency/PhD program.

what kinds of research MDs can do

Most 'straight' MDs do clinical research studies -- i.e. contrasting the efficacy of drug A to drug B, looking at the prevalence of disease X, etc. Some MDs do basic science research by collaborating with PhD mentors/co-workers.

With regards to advice, if you've already been been accepted into the MD program (and have already submitted your acceptance paperwork), I'd suggest just pursuing the MD alone at the moment. The beauty of the MD is that you can jump into research anytime without any consequences, either by doing summer research in M1, taking a year off after M2 (NIH / Duke fellowship), or taking a research elective during M4.