University of Rochester Medical Scientist Training Program

The University of Rochester has a long history of training physician-scientists, with numerous alumni contributing to biomedical research and assuming leadership positions at academic medical centers. There is a continued and growing need for physician-scientists, who serve a unique role in translating research discoveries to the

clinic and bringing clinical experiences to the laboratory bench. The main objective of the University of Rochester MSTP (UR-MSTP) is to provide a unique and integrated environment for the rigorous and efficient training of future physician-scientists. This is accomplished by immersion in basic science and clinical exposure through all

program years combined with a period of focused research leading to the PhD. Degrees are offered in a wide range of areas that take advantage of the University’s highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment, including basic biomedical sciences with emphasis on specific organ systems, Biomedical Engineering,

population-based degrees in Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Health Services Research, and College-based programs such as Chemistry and Optics. As described in this application, our institutional environment is comprised of outstanding faculty, resources and infrastructure, that provide cutting-edge research and clinical

training. UR-MSTP objectives are: 1) Provide an efficient and integrated training experience in rigorous research and clinical activities that imbues trainees with skills to identify important biomedical research questions, translate research findings into clinical practice, and develop productive careers combining research, clinical care,

education, and leadership. 2) Support and guide trainees through all phases of their training experience across a broad range of disciplines, highlighting multidisciplinary approaches that will impact medically relevant research and human health care. 3) Develop a community of physician-scientist trainees that encompasses principles of

diversity, equity, and respect, as well as research and clinical integrity, for the betterment of human health. 4) Rigorously, comprehensively, and continuously evaluate the MSTP. 5) Recruit 8 new MSTP students each year to maintain a cohort comprising 60 to 65 trainees, striving to complete both degrees in 8-years. The medical

school is fully committed to the MSTP, and is supporting new initiatives to enhance program evaluation, training, and recruitment, including an MSTP Summer Scholars Undergraduate Research Program, resources for mentor training, and a new effort to enhance trainee resilience. We have been successful in filling our slots with highly

motivated students who are passionate about biomedical research and successful in competing for individual fellowships, publishing their work, and entering competitive, research-focused residency programs. Coupled with the University of Rochester’s commitment to the MSTP, support from NIGMS will ensure that current and future

trainees develop the skills and insights to initiate and lead the translation from science to human health as members of the Physician-Scientist Workforce.