Research background for MD/PhD progams

[brw002]

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I was going to apply to MD/PhD programs this cycle, but I pushed it back to next year because I didn't feel ready for the MCAT and I don't have enough significant research. My initial plan when I made the decision to push back my application was to take the upcoming summer to study for my MCAT and take the extra year to gain research experience. My university offers a BS/MS program, so i was planning to pursue my MS during this gap year. I recently found an job opportunity as a paid research assistant at a prestigious research institute. I'm sure both paths would give me valuable research experience, but does one look better than the other in the MD/PhD application?

 

[StoicJosher]

It doesn't matter either way as long as you have significant amount of hypothesis driven research that you independently worked on. I know both groups of people who applied this year - BS/MSs and people who took a year (or two) off to do fulltime paid NIH IRTAs and other research programs.

Also check out this thread about MD/PhD chances.

 

[Lil Mick]

The research opportunity is probably a bit better for MD/PhD, as this will allow you to work in your field of interest, rather than trying to take courses and fit in your research. However, with 3+ years of research, over a 3.7 gpa, and a good (34+) MCAT, you shouldn't have problems when you apply with either option...