Summary of Requirements
Students enrolled in the Certificate of Distinction in Research take part in a longitudinal curriculum that includes workshops, seminars, and online modules designed to develop research skills over four years of medical education. Early program requirements focus on essential preparation, such as research ethics training, mentor selection, literature review techniques, and introductory courses in scientific concepts, epidemiology, and biostatistics.
As students advance, requirements broaden to include research proposal development, IRB and regulatory training, clinical research operations, and data collection and management. Students are expected to maintain active mentorship relationships and complete yearly progress reports and evaluations throughout the program.
The program concludes with the completion of a scholarly project, including abstract submission, presentation (oral or poster) at a regional or national conference, peer review, and manuscript submission for publication. To earn the Certificate of Distinction in Research, students must complete all required tasks, participate in program activities, and demonstrate ongoing professional and scholarly growth during the four-year curriculum.
Criteria for Research Certificate of Distinction Completion
To be eligible for the Certificate of Distinction in Research, students must:
- Attend a minimum of 5 workshops/events over 4 years
- Successfully complete Research COD deliverables to end of MS3 for MSPE inclusion
- Submit a research manuscript and complete external presentation by end of MS4
- Demonstrate professional growth through mentor feedback and leadership participation
Research COD Overview - Expectations and Deliverables (Downloadable PDF)