Research as an MD?

[kiwie07]

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Does anyone know many opportunities there is to do research as as MD? (as opposed to an MD/PhD?)

 

[Maybeknot]

Does anyone know many opportunities there is to do research as as MD? (as opposed to an MD/PhD?)

What sort of research? Obviously you'll have plenty of opportunities for clinical research as an MD. Basic science? A bit iffy. That's possible too. I worked for a PI who was an MD, did his residency and fellowship in pediatric genetics. He told me he regretted getting the MD instead of the PhD. If you're going to do basic research, why not go the easier (and less expensive) route and get a PhD?

 

[PreMedAdAG]

I agree.. if you down with clinical research , then MD is the way to go. I work for PIs who just have their MD and they are the Chief of the Division and the Director of analgesic research.. no PhDs

 

[EvoDevo]

Sure. Depends on your particular situation, bud. Many residency programs now encourage/require research. Your opportunities will also depends upon whether you are interested in clinical vs. bench research, and where you're located.

 

[KatieJune]

I have worked for MDs who are PIs of labs (basic science research and clinical research), but also spend significant time treating patients. You definately can do both (but you'll be busy!! 🙂)

If you do MD (vs. MD/Ph.D.) you'll probably have to do a fellowship.

 

[Uegis]

The PI i work for right now is a MD only. He does lab research at UCD Med Center. In residency, there are opportunities to take a year off for research electives. That's what my PI did and he was involved in a lot of research as a med student and during his fellowship. But he did tell me its a lot of work. On top of everything else that takes up 70% of your time, you try to squeeze time in to research.

I actually met quite a few residents taking their time off to try research, most from rad onc. They have the time, i guess 🙂

 

[kiwie07]

sweeeet. thanks for the input. 🙂

yea, i (was) deciding btw md and md/phd... i hadn't done clinical research at all until recently, and it's awesome...but i guess i'm just really attached to pipetting and what i eventually want to do will involve basic science research.

to a busy residency it is. 🙂 thanks again!

 

[BigRedPingpong]

If you come to NYU you will have no problem finding basic research as an MD only candidate. In fact you will graduate with honors if you write a thesis about your bench work and defend it.

sweeeet. thanks for the input. 🙂

yea, i (was) deciding btw md and md/phd... i hadn't done clinical research at all until recently, and it's awesome...but i guess i'm just really attached to pipetting and what i eventually want to do will involve basic science research.

to a busy residency it is. 🙂 thanks again!

 

[Mumpu]

As much as you want to, bench or clinical. Schools welcome research-minded physicians because research brings money and fame (and US News rankings).